I got this info from a U.S. job site, so the SA market may be slightly different but it provides some food for thought for those of you who have hit a fork in the road when it comes to your career or even for those of you starting out along your own job path.
Everyone knows we should go greener—buy local, reduce our carbon footprint, and recycle every last scrap of paper that comes our way. But if you really want to make nice with planet earth, choose an eco-friendly profession.
Thanks to the expanding popularity of all things sustainable, green collar jobs are among the fastest growing sectors in the work place. And that mean’s these five eco jobs are not only good for the globe, but your long-term career survival as well. From where we’re standing, it’s a win-win: save the planet, save your career.
Green Interior Designer
Green interior designers blend style and sustainability. Your niche revolves around environmentally friendly materials—think mango wood, natural fabrics, or recycled glass. If you’re into more than just slapping on a coat of low-VOC paint or fluffing an organic cotton pillow, you might incorporate more heavy-duty energy-efficient design elements like a rainwater harvesting system.
While competition is keen in the world of interior design, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) maintains that job prospects are still good: general employment is expected to grow 19 percent by 2018, and the numbers are even higher in the energy efficient design area.
Disaster Management Specialist
Hurricanes. Earthquakes. Radiation leaks. The world is full of potential crisis and when something goes wrong it’s your job to coordinate a lightening-fast disaster response. Not only are you in charge of developing evacuation strategies and training government employees about crowd control, you’re also behind all the post-disaster cleaning-up efforts (BP oil spill, anyone?). Mother nature, and the citizens under your care, will both thank you.
The BLS reports the emergency management specialist field is expected to grow at a 28.2% clip through next year—one of the highest growth rates of any career field. We’re not sure if this is encouraging in general (are disasters on the rise?), but it’s great news for the job market!
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental lawyers are the courthouse champions of planet earth. From protecting endangered species, to enforcing pollution laws, you litigate about any and all environmental issues. You’re basically Erin Brockovich, plus a law degree.
Over the next few years, the BLS only predicts average job growth for lawyers in general. However, due to rising awareness about eco issues, environmental law is singled out as a hot spot of increasing demand.
Vegan Nutritionist
Did you know that every year, hamburger consumption emits the same amount of greenhouse gas as keeping 19.6 million SUVs on the road? A vegan nutritionist probably would. You are well aware of both the health and environmental reasons for cutting animal products out of your diet and you use your nutritionist training to spread the vegan gospel. Hallelujah for tofu!
While nutrition and dietitian jobs are expected to grow at an average rate, your specialized training in how to lead a vegan lifestyle means you’ll be in high demand for both health-conscious and fad-conscious consumers.
Bicycle Mechanic
Had enough of the corporate world? Don’t become a hippy, become a bike mechanic! As the most environmentally friendly mode of transportation, bicycles are a rare breed of wonderful. So keeping two-wheelers in tip top shape is an essential part of the green vehicle movement.
Plus, you’ll have plenty of job opportunities to hone your craft: bicycle mechanic positions are expected to expand at a faster than average pace.
Now, you tell me: Is “green” just a buzz word, or do eco jobs actually make a difference?
Via businessinsider.com
Nics xx
