Written by: Nelize Ernst
The saying “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure” has never been this appropriate before. Global warming, sustainable development projects and general awareness of the environment have set off a reaction of caring and creating opportunity amongst people to start afresh. At this very moment every person has a chance to learn and do something new that will benefit themselves and everything around them.
From the Plastiki (60 foot catamaran, made out of 100% recyclable plastic) that took to the waters a few weeks ago to the first solar airplane that took the sky – it is happening! The time to get stuck in and learn something new is now! South Africa is among the top 10 contributors to global warming which creates a sense of urgency to implement greener industrial strategies which will require new skills and knowledge.
Career choices have not been this exciting in a long time, and acquiring the valuable knowledge and skills that are ultimately necessary for sustainable living, ensures a strong position not only with job security but financially as well. Sustainable projects are starting to pop up everywhere, organizations are changing to friendlier methods and educational and training institutes are gearing up to create more learning opportunities in the Green Industries.
Various recruitment agencies have started to branch out to green-collar jobs. Wind, solar and water desalination plants will need proper land that requires agents, lawyers and financial advisors to negotiate and address land space issues, financial aspects and legalities. Project planners and engineers from all sectors have to be involved in the building and maintaining of energy projects. Trades like millwrights, electricians, fitters & turners and plumbers all have opportunities to change to “greener” fields.
Sectors like construction, architecture, landscaping and agriculture are all focusing on friendlier building practices, better conservation and natural planting methods. Fashion and cosmetic industries are moving towards friendlier and sustainable production, while sectors like finance and I.T are also working on strategies to manage carbon footprints.
Soon, every industry, career and job will have a green spin to it, and everyone will be working towards a greener, healthier, quality life style – for all living things on planet earth. The grass might after all be greener on the other side.
Interesting links
www.saneri.org.za
www.gbcsa.org.za
www.ifashion.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1889&Itemid=237
www.go-organic.co.za
Nelize Ernst blogs for InnerScience on the liveeco network. Click here to find out more about Nelize and InnerScience.
The liveeco team
