As the urgency to address climate change and adopt sustainable practices intensifies, ESG (environmental, social, governance) considerations are front and centre for businesses.

Research by jobs website Indeed shows that green job postings are up 93% since 2019. However, workers often feel unprepared to pursue these roles or are unsure about the skills required. Micro-credentials can offer a solution for quick and effective upskilling or reskilling.

Micro-credentials are transforming the way busy professionals stay current with industry trends and build skills for the future. These short, accredited, and flexible learning experiences ensure learners are equipped to respond to rapid technological, economic, and societal change. 

Recognising the growing need for skills to support sustainability initiatives, the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research and Innovation and Science has announced a fee subsidy of 80% on courses related to sustainability and environmental impact. Trinity College Dublin micro-credential courses qualify for this funding and are open for applications.

Solar energy conversion and application

Harnessing the sun’s power is vital to achieving a sustainable and resilient energy future. Trinity College Dublin's Micro-credential in Solar Energy Conversion and Application gives engineers an in-depth understanding of solar energy technologies and their practical applications.

From photovoltaics to solar thermal systems, participants explore the fundamental concepts, design principles, and performance evaluation techniques necessary to leverage solar energy effectively. Armed with this knowledge, engineers can integrate solar technologies into their projects, leading the way towards a more sustainable and renewable energy mix. 

As course lead Sarah McCormack noted: “With the rapid growth of the solar energy industry, there are increasing opportunities for learners with specialised knowledge in this area. As more businesses, governments, and individuals seek to utilise solar energy, there is a growing demand for professionals with expertise in solar energy applications."

Air pollution monitoring, assessment, and control

In an era of increasing pollution levels and public health concerns, understanding the intricacies of air quality management is crucial. This course provides engineers comprehensive knowledge of air pollution sources, monitoring techniques, and control strategies. By delving into cutting-edge technologies and methodologies, participants gain the skills to design effective pollution control measures, contributing to cleaner air and healthier communities. 

Course lead Dr John Gallagher confirms: "Addressing air pollution not only can lead to positive impacts for personal and population health, but it represents a key topic in combating climate change.

"In this micro-credential we navigate through the sources and impacts of air pollution and explore how active and passive innovations in pollution control, from designing ventilation systems to implementing nature-based solutions, can deliver healthier environments in a more sustainable way."

Low carbon power technology

Engineers must be at the forefront of developing and implementing sustainable power technologies as the world transitions towards a low-carbon future. Trinity College Dublin's micro-credential in Low Carbon Power Technology empowers engineers with the expertise needed to drive the renewable energy revolution.

Participants delve into the principles and practices of various low-carbon power generation technologies, including wind, hydro, and biomass. Through hands-on experiences and real-world case studies, engineers gain the ability to design, evaluate, and optimise low-carbon power systems, paving the way for a greener energy landscape. 

The above micro-credentials are approved for CPD by Engineers Ireland and carry credit in the form of ECTS, the EU standard credit system for university-level education.

Additional micro-credentials in sustainability that qualify for 80% Fee subsidy for eligible learners include: 

  • Advanced Spatial Analysis using GIS
  • Transport Modelling and Planning 
  • Measuring Environmental Impact: Lifecycle Assessment for Engineers
  • Climate Leadership Development
  • Cyber-physical Systems & Control 

Find out more and apply at: https://bit.ly/tcd-microcredentials-sustainability