Automotive

Environmental Competence for Managers

This module, developed within the Digital & Green Skills Towards the Future of the Mobility Ecosystem (Trireme) project, explores Environmental Competence for Managers, a crucial capability for modern businesses. It highlights integrating environmental considerations into corporate strategies to enhance sustainability, regulatory compliance, and competitive advantage.

The module examines key components of environmental competence, including knowledge of environmental policies, sustainable resource management, ethical responsibilities, and leadership approaches in environmental decision-making. It underscores the role of competence-based management theories in fostering sustainability and emphasises the integration of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles and circular economy strategies into business models.

Challenges in developing environmental competence, such as resistance to change, financial constraints, and lack of expertise, are discussed alongside case studies of corporate environmental failures, including Volkswagen’s emissions scandal and BP’s Deepwater Horizon spill. The document also presents emerging trends, including ESG-driven corporate governance, technological advancements in sustainability, and the growing importance of circular economy principles.

The module concludes with strategic recommendations for business leaders, advocating for mandatory ESG training, adopting AI-driven sustainability analytics, integrating circular economy models, and strengthening regulatory compliance frameworks. By implementing these measures, organisations can enhance resilience, foster innovation, and maintain long-term competitiveness in an increasingly eco-conscious business landscape.