This project seeks to better understand the barriers to participation for disabled young people in low carbon industries and green jobs. We will analyse the impacts of education policies and the representation of young disabled people in educational materials focused on employment and just futures. By doing this, we aim to produce more detailed and nuanced understanding of the exclusionary mechanisms at work when disabled young people are planning a future in STEM industries.  The project will produce new resources that model inclusive ways of representing disabled young people, traditionally left out of STEM careers and offer guidance for those working to support disabled young people who are interested in energy sector careers pathway.  This project focuses on ensuring the young disabled people are always are seen and are always heard.

Flexible funding: FA2 round 2 2024

Project Output(s)

Elizabeth J. Done, Helen Knowler, Irina Lazar, Sylvia Hayes, Joshua Lait, Andrea Perez Porres, (Un)just transitions for youth and the disabled? The exclusionary pressures facing science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education, Energy Research & Social Science, Volume 129, 2025, 104371, ISSN 2214-6296, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.erss.2025.104371.
 

Building Inclusive Futures: Education, Disability and Net Zero event at University College London on 29 June 2026: The team shared their finding and discussed a forthcoming policy brief examining the barriers that prevent many disabled young people from pursuing careers in STEM and emerging clean energy sectors.

The event highlighted how hidden systemic barriers within education can limit access, participation and progression, while also showcasing practical approaches to creating more inclusive learning environments. A live visual summary of the discussions captured key themes, including improving recognition of invisible disabilities, developing inclusive STEM education, supporting transitions into employment, and ensuring disabled young people are actively involved in shaping solutions. The event provided valuable insights into how education, policy and practice can work together to create more accessible pathways into low-carbon and clean energy careers.

Image: Live graphic recording from the event summarising key discussion themes and recommendations for more inclusive pathways into STEM and green careers.