Is a Career in Environment and Sustainability for You?
Does a career in environment and sustainability intrigue you? Are you a student with a passion for nature and seeking a new adventure? Or are you someone simply interested in reading about the scope of a green career? If yes, this article's for you!
What are green jobs and how are they impactful?
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) defines green jobs as "positions in agriculture, manufacturing, R&D, administrative, and service activities aimed at substantially preserving or restoring environmental quality". These jobs aim to protect and promote the environment, consider the human impact on the health of the planet and endeavor to minimize it. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), this type of job:
Increases efficient consumption of energy and raw materials.
Limits greenhouse gas emissions.
Minimizes waste and contamination.
Protects and restores ecosystems.
Contributes to adaptation to climate change.
Generates employment, affecting the global economy.
Opportunities everywhere.
Practically every sector has a scope to become sustainable and efforts are being taken in that direction. This has led to an increase in sustainable and green jobs. The list below is an example of the vastness of the applications of the principles of sustainability in various areas:
An environmental lawyer represents clients in legal issues on topics like clean technology, water law, climate change law, and the management of land. Environmental laws are a large and complex specialty. The practice of environmental lawyers often has a heavy administrative law component, as many of the applicable rules are regulations passed by federal and state agencies.
Environmental managers oversee the performance of private, public, and voluntary sector organizations, making sure environmental standards and legislation are met. A strong passion for social justice and environmental transformation is important for making this work a rewarding experience.
Environmental Health and Safety Officer
Environmental health and safety (EHS) officers inspect and monitor the environment, machinery, and processes to ensure safety as per government rules and regulations and industry standards. They keep themselves updated with the knowledge of new government rules and regulations that helps workers' health as well as safety.
Environmental engineers use their multi-disciplinary knowledge of engineering, soil science, biology, and chemistry to develop solutions to environmental problems. Their work finds application in improving recycling, waste disposal, public health, water, and air pollution control, etc., and addressing global issues, such as unsafe drinking water, climate change, and environmental sustainability.
Environmental planners develop short- and long-term plans for land use in urban and rural areas while balancing considerations such as social, economic, and environmental issues. Their work also contributes to environmental impact assessments. Environmental planners can be involved in strategic, commercial, and industrial development, as well as heritage, tourism, and integrated resource planning. They work on a range of scales, from local planning to regional and national strategies.
The work of an agricultural specialist involves researching farms and crops, collecting data, and helping farmers implement the best industry practices available. An agricultural specialist may also evaluate farmlands, cultivate relationships with others in the industry, and support land conservation efforts.
Landscape architects design parks and the outdoor spaces of campuses, recreational facilities, businesses, private homes, etc., and plan the locations of buildings, roads, walkways, flowers, shrubs, and trees within these environments. Their goal is to design these areas so that they are not only highly functional but also harmonious with the natural environment.
Environmental consultants provide expert assessment and advisory services to clients on the management of environmental issues. In doing so, they play an integral role in reducing the detrimental impact of industrial, commercial, and government initiatives on the environment. E
Environmental scientists and specialists use their knowledge of the natural sciences for the protection and conservation of the environment, as well as human health. They may work in the restoration of disrupted areas, advise policymakers, or work with industries to reduce their environmental impact.
Wildlife photographers produce images of animals, plants, and environments from across the globe. These may be showcased in publications or self-published as independent artists. In addition to understanding photographic techniques and methods, wildlife photographers must also comprehend the subjects of their images.
Environmental science teachers educate students about the impact of humans on natural ecosystems, covering issues such as pollution, environmental destruction, sustainability, and climate change. Professors whose fields have relevance to Environmental Studies such as Science, Geology, and even Geography are competent to teach the subject.
Environmental advocates protect the public and the planet from environmental hazards by lobbying for environmental legislation, working with the media, organizing environmental events, recruiting members, and fundraising. They work in academia, nonprofits, the government, and the private sector, as researchers, policymakers, field workers, and communication specialists.
The role of an environmental technician involves helping environmental engineers and scientists identify, evaluate, prevent, and control contamination of the environment. Environmental technicians inspect and maintain equipment, control and manage hazardous waste, collect samples, manage waste operations, and assist with regulatory compliance, etc.
Environmental economists are responsible for conducting economic analyses related to environmental protection and the use of the natural environment, such as water, air, land, and renewable energy resources. They evaluate and quantify the benefits, costs, incentives, and impacts of alternative options using economic principles and statistical techniques.
Industrial ecology, known as “the science of sustainability,” is the study of industrial systems, product design, and manufacturing processes, which works to identify and implement strategies to limit the environmental impact of production.
A science communicator aims to disseminate scientific knowledge in a simplified and engaging manner. Science communicators play an important role in popularizing science. They use their knowledge of science and effective communication skills to bridge the gap between non-scientists, academia, and the general public.
Creating value.
People who are working to combat climate change and improve the environment typically feel motivated by the cause. But do all of them enjoy their work? It’s important to emphasize that understanding what kind of work you find enjoyable will increase the value that you can add to a career in environmental science and sustainability. Becoming an environmental scientist for the simple fact that you want to ‘save’ the planet is not good enough. Rather, having an appetite for research, environmental impact assessments, and an appreciation for nature is sure to ignite a career as an environmental scientist.
Luckily, the study of environmental science is expanding and becoming more interdisciplinary, meaning that it’s intersecting with more disciplines that can be applied to so many different industries. There is room for all types of professionals meaning more value is being applied to the study of the environment.
According to an International Labor Organization (ILO) report, 24 million new jobs will be created globally by 2030, provided sustainable practices are adopted and implemented.
Exploring new avenues.
We need jobs that encompass so much more than the environmental title.
Sustainability can be applied everywhere - in various fields like the climate sector, tech, language, culture, and tourism. All of these industries play an important role in transforming society toward a sustainable future therefore keeping an eye out for opportunities in areas other than the obvious could prove revolutionary.
So how do you decide what job would you like to take up in the future?
For students, often the resources can be found on campus, e.g. vising the career development center or talking to a professor. For those that need help deciding what direction they want to go in a green career, taking a credible personality test could help e.g. the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator or Truity Career Personality Profiler.
You could also take up online introductory courses about a particular field to find out whether you enjoy learning it. Reading books may also help in this regard - they are a great way to develop basic knowledge about a field.
Talking to a professional working in the field you are interested in could give valuable insights into the work and the industry. It is also often suggested to discuss this with family and friends who know you and your skills.
Whether you choose "the road not taken" or "the tried and tested option", Footprint wishes you a successful and sustainable career!
