883. Accessing green services or technologies can be harder for certain regions or groups, and action is needed to ensure that no one is left behind. For example, the Review heard that there is a gulf between public transport services in rural areas and those in cities, making it harder for those in rural areas to switch from using cars. Renters can find it harder to access energy efficiency measures, as they are largely dependent on landlords or councils to make decisions about retrofitting, and this can result in tenants paying higher energy bills than owner- occupied households. Although many people are concerned about climate change and want to take action, many are time-poor and face other more immediate priorities, so navigating the bureaucracy that can be associated with accessing support can be challenging. 7% of people in England in 2020-21 did not have access to the internet at home, which can also make accessing support, services and products more difficult.615 Often these issues compound for lower income households, who are more likely to rent and less likely to have access to home computers. Making green choices easy for everyone is essential.
884. Difficulty accessing the skills and products needed to install or purchase green goods can act as a further barrier. Even for those who can afford green choices and who do not face specific access barriers, skills gaps or limited supply chains can make it harder to find the services and products needed to enable switches to green technologies. This can also damage confidence, as people may be concerned that the skills and spare parts needed to repair or maintain green technology may not be readily available. Skills and supply chains are considered in Pillars 2 and 3, with some specific recommendations relating to the key issues individuals face included here.
885. While net zero will be a net positive for jobs, some will see work in their regions or demand for their skillsets decline; ensuring these groups can access new jobs and develop new skills will be vital to delivering a fair transition. This is explored in Pillar 3.