Sustainability L&D at AtkinsRéalis: Collaborating for Net Zero

I'm Tara, a Sustainability Consultant and Lead at AtkinsRéalis in the Middle East. At AtkinsRéalis, our Engineering Net Zero and Sustainability training program empowers colleagues around the world to expand our carbon expertise. In this series, we're sharing how the experience has shaped our approach to sustainability, collaboration, and delivering even better for the future. I'd heard great things about how these programs connect colleagues from different regions and backgrounds. As a sustainability consultant, I was eager to see the company-wide view on carbon – from decision-making and tools to networking and business opportunities.

This AtkinsRéalis training changed my approach to sustainable design.

The program gave me a clear understanding of carbon issues and challenges regionally and globally. It reminded me of AtkinsRéalis' commitments and helped me spot key carbon-saving opportunities and constraints in my projects. I began viewing my work for its overall carbon goals instead of just my discipline's scoped tasks.

How I use carbon tools and insights in my daily work at AtkinsRéalis?

One of the program modules on carbon tools and calculations was really informative. It covered carbon insight platforms, giving me a solid understanding of impact, reduction measures, and material details. Exploring these tools taught me to use my data more effectively, and I've started applying this in daily work to give valuable feedback to the team.

What it's like to collaborate on carbon strategies with global colleagues?

It was brilliant meeting my global colleagues face-to-face. The sessions were highly engaging, with everyone actively participating in challenges and other activities. My colleagues come from so many different backgrounds and parts of the world, and it was fascinating to discuss their work. As a sustainability lead, I was curious about how these diverse fields could contribute to carbon savings. That said, our collaboration during the program sparked even more innovative ideas, blending different technical and financial perspectives.

We had a lot of fun too. On the last day, we performed a skit that really showcased everyone's creativity and humor. It made the learning experience even more enjoyable.

Solving real-world sustainability challenges through teamwork and technology

The group business challenge was a valuable learning experience for me. I worked with my team to tackle a real AtkinsRéalis project, addressing the problems faced, including financial and technical issues. We had to collaborate closely, identifying carbon hotspots and coming up with practical solutions together. That combination of teamwork and real-world application was such a learning curve for me.

Where I want to develop my future role in sustainability?

This program helped me truly understand AtkinsRéalis' carbon goals and the wide range of efforts being taken from commitment to Net Zero 2030 to our alignment with initiatives like the science-based targets and the UN Global Compact. Seeing how seriously the company takes its role in global sustainability frameworks made me feel more connected to the purpose behind my work. I now feel confident speaking about the tools, resources and internal expertise we have to support low-carbon delivery.

My advice for people starting out in net zero and sustainability

Stay curious and ask many questions. Tap into conversations and consider how your work contributes to carbon reduction and what suggestions you can offer. You will be surprised at how much you can contribute by being engaged.

Why investing in carbon training matters for our work?

Given our demanding daily tasks and stressful environment, it can be challenging to find the motivation for self-learning. However, when we are given a formal program, we can collectively dedicate time to learning and actively discuss ways to improve. This helps us brainstorm solutions to business challenges and enhances our overall learning experience.

Ready to drive sustainability and make a global impact? Explore careers at AtkinsRéalis.