5 reasons to choose a ‘green’ career

Have you always dreamt of making a difference in the world? Do you have a passion for science and the environment? Do you want to help shape a greener, cleaner future?

Then a career in the sustainability sector could be the ideal choice for you!

With the number of jobs in this sector set to grow over the next decade, here are five reasons to follow a ‘green’ career path and not let your ambitions go to waste.

But first, let’s define what green jobs are.

‘Green jobs’ contribute to preserving or restoring the environment, be they in traditional sectors such as manufacturing and construction, or in new, emerging fields such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, organic farming or sustainable design.

According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), green jobs:

• Increase efficient consumption of energy and raw materials
• Limit greenhouse gas emissions
• Minimise waste and contamination
• Protect and restore ecosystems
• Contribute to adaptation to climate change.

World leaders are busy trying to repair the economy in the aftermath of COVID-19, whilst also addressing climate change and harnessing this opportunity to ‘build back greener’.

In England, the Local Government Association has predicted that by 2030 there could be 694,000 jobs in the low-carbon and renewable energy economy — up from 185,000 in 2018. In 2020 it was also announced that businesses across the UK are set to benefit from a £134 million boost to develop clean technologies and create green jobs. Green industries are already major global employers: the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) report there are currently 11.5 million jobs in the sector.

With that in mind, it’s safe to say climate change jobs could not only save the planet, but also our careers.

Younger generations have already understood the importance of being kind to our planet. Over two-thirds (68%) of children today hope to have a career that helps the environment, according to the Institution of Engineering & Technology (IET). In fact, their research, which was carried out with children aged five to 13, suggests ‘making a difference’ is more appealing to children today than money or fame!

They’re not the only ones looking for a sense of meaning. Workers’ expectations of what they want from their jobs, and their lives, have changed dramatically over the last two years. Our latest report shows that 66% of employees want to find meaning in their daily work, and 61% want to know their work contributes positively to society.

Green jobs certainly tick those boxes. Which brings us neatly on to our next point…

When opting for a career in sustainability or the environmental sector, you can be sure you’re making an impact.

Not only will you be making a significant and positive difference to tackling climate change, you’ll also pave the way for a better, more sustainable way of life – helping people now and in the future.

The transition to a decarbonised economy is also a driver of economic growth with the potential to create millions of jobs.

According to an ILO report, the green economy will create 24 million new jobs by 2030. This will enable millions of people to overcome poverty and enjoy improved livelihoods.

In short, green jobs are good for people, the environment and the economy.

There’s a wide range of green jobs available today, and so-called green collar workers come from a variety of backgrounds.

People who work in manufacturing, for example packaging design, must have a knowledge of environmentally friendly materials. Likewise, an engineer wanting to work in the energy sector will likely need to specialise in everything to do with energy efficiency and renewable energy, and a waste management officer needs to be familiar with government regulations around safe waste disposal, packaging regulations and recycling targets.

Human skills are important, too. In most roles you’ll need strong communication skills along with an ability to work as part of a team. Other essential qualities include project management skills and interpersonal skills to explain legislation and procedures to people from all backgrounds.

Your salary will vary depending on job level, experience and the fields you chose to work in, but here are some average salaries* for green jobs:

• Environmental Health and Safety Advisor: £31,418
• Environmental Manager: £47170
• Environmental Engineer: £34,500
• Solar Electrician: £38,750
• Sustainability Engineer: £46,250
• Sustainability Advisor: £30,250
• Waste Coordinator: £26,823
• Waste Management Officer: £44,629

*From glassdoor.co.uk, July 2022

There are lots of benefits to working in a green job, not just for the environment but also for yourself. As more businesses strive to become eco-friendly, every job has the potential to become green.

At Manpower we want to help you unleash your potential and accelerate your career in this field. From environmental health & safety advisors, managers, and surveyors, to packaging technologists, asbestos specialists, and waste management roles, check out all our latest ‘green jobs’!