The circular economy at work: Jobs & skills for London’s low-carbon future

Explore how London’s circular economy could generate 250,000+ low-carbon jobs by 2030. Discover key skills, training needs, and opportunities for a greener future.

Introduction

ReLondon commissioned Valpak’s Consultancy team to uncover how a growing circular economy in London could generate employment opportunities AND the skills needed to support this change. With the right policies, London’s circular economy could be worth £24.2 billion by 2030, creating over 250,000 new jobs across diverse sectors and skill levels. These aren’t just in waste and recycling—but in manufacturing, design, logistics, education, government, and more.

Green Jobs London
  • The transition to a low-carbon circular economy in London offers major job creation potential: 250,000+ additional jobs by 2030.
  • Job opportunities span the whole economy—not just traditionally “green” sectors. Roles will be found in manufacturing, product design, repair, reuse, logistics, education/training, and public policy.
  • Wide spectrum of skills needed: from entry level through to technical and professional level. Skills in sustainable materials, life-cycle thinking, resource efficiency, repair & remanufacture, regulatory and compliance knowledge, and low-carbon business innovation were highlighted.
  • Inclusivity is essential. Growth in the circular economy can be accessible to all Londoners, provided training, reskilling and upskilling pathways are in place.
London Building Solar Panels
  • Economic growth: The circular economy isn’t just about waste—it’s an engine for economic opportunity, innovation, and competitiveness.
  • Sustainability impact: Reduced resource consumption, lower emissions, more efficient materials use with the associated resulting benefits for climate goals.
  • Social equity and skills development: Creating pathways for diverse communities and skill levels to participate in green jobs helps address economic inequality and resilience.
E-bikes in London
  • Strengthen training and education programmes tailored to circular economy skills
  • Policy support and incentives for industries to adopt circular practices (repair, reuse, recycling, regenerativity)
  • Partnerships across sectors: government, education, business, communities
  • Investment in infrastructure that supports circular activities—in design, materials recovery, reuse networks, etc

Conclusion

London has a major opportunity to lead in the low-carbon circular economy. With coordinated action—policy, training, business innovation, and inclusive access—these 250,000+ green jobs can become a reality by 2030.

How to read the full report

For the detailed breakdown of sectors, specific skill gaps, policy recommendations and case examples, download the full PackFlow report.

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