SWITCH-On Skills
Welcome to SWITCH-On Skills, a project dedicated to paving the way for a sustainable future, funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The initiative is committed to equipping the future workforce with essential skills to tackle climate and environmental challenges. By offering free, credit-bearing micro-credential courses, SWITCH-On Skills enables participants to enhance their qualifications and gain critical knowledge. The project’s reach extends to schools and colleges in the region, ensuring that the next generation is well-prepared with vital Net Zero skills.
Courses Offered:
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This course aims to develop an understanding of environmental permitting, certification, and common environmental legislations, as well as the establishment of effective environmental management systems. Participants will gain proficiency in environmental practices.
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Participants will explore various renewable energy sources and technologies necessary for achieving net zero emissions, including solar, wind, hydropower, geothermal, and bioenergy. The course covers the design, implementation, and management of renewable energy infrastructure.
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This course focuses on financial planning within the clean energy sector, covering principles, models, data, tools, and practical applications tailored for renewable energy projects.
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Participants will delve into the science, methods, applications, economics, policies, and environmental aspects of hydrogen, gaining knowledge to contribute to the ongoing energy transition.
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This course covers materials used in energy production, storage, and usage, emphasizing the importance of materials research in the energy sector and addressing the Energy Trilemma: energy security, energy equity, and environmental sustainability.
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Participants will learn about the process and evolution of Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) steelmaking, comparing it with traditional methods and exploring options to achieve net zero carbon emissions in steelmaking by 2050.
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This course addresses the sources of greenhouse gas emissions in traditional steelmaking and introduces the latest advancements towards a carbon-neutral steel industry.
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Participants will discover the origins and efficient use of materials in everyday products, exploring how these materials can be utilized more efficiently and sustainably within closed loops.
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This course details the principles of combustion engines and their emissions, as well as advancements towards carbon-neutral motor vehicles.
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Covering electric vehicles, alternative fuel technologies, public transportation systems, and urban planning, this course examines policies, regulations, and incentives promoting low-carbon transport solutions.
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This course explores how nature-based solutions address global environmental challenges and provide multiple benefits, supplemented by relevant local case studies.
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Participants will learn how buildings can integrate renewable energy technologies to become power stations, contributing to a greener and more energy-efficient world.
Course Delivery
All courses are delivered online through Swansea University’s Learning Management System, Canvas, offering a seamless learning experience. Each course spans 12 weeks, with participants dedicating approximately 3 hours per week. The courses include three progressive assessment quizzes and a comprehensive final written assessment.
Expert guidance and assistance are available from project lecturers and dedicated learning technologists. These professionals can be reached through Canvas or via email, ensuring a supportive and enriching learning environment.
Contact
For more information or to enroll, please reach out through the contact form provided on the website: SWITCH On Skills – SWITCH (now-switch.wales)
SWITCH-On Skills is powered by a collaboration between academia, government, and industry, led by Swansea University in partnership with Cardiff University and the University of South Wales. Join us in navigating towards a resilient, environmentally-prosperous future.