Staying Ahead in the Sustainable Economy: 5 Tips to Prepare for a Green Career
Climate Incubator
Support youths to build a climate-resilient future with training, mentorship, green job platform, and community support.
Are you struggling with choosing a career path after graduation? Have you considered a green job?
It is natural for fresh or recent college graduates to feel unsure about their career paths soon after graduation. After all, the job market is vast and constantly changing, and it takes time to explore our true passions. You may be passionate about the environment and want to make a positive impact on the world, or you may be curious about whether the green field is a promising career path for you to invest in. However, one of the biggest challenges is the uncertainty about where and how to start.?
If you have these questions, we want to reassure you that you are not alone in this dilemma. Many young people today share their passion for sustainability and are looking for green careers that make a positive impact on the world.
In this article, we will discuss the meaning of green jobs, the global and Hong Kong green job trends, and share some advice on how you can prepare for a scareer. Whether you are a student or a recent graduate, this article will provide valuable insights to help you build a career that positively impacts the environment.
Meaning of Green Jobs
Green jobs are generally considered as the positions leading to the creation of a more sustainable future. According to International Labour Organization (ILO), green jobs are defined as decent positions that contribute to preserving or restoring the environment. Typical green jobs can be found in sectors such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, green building and construction, sustainable transportation, environmental protection, and more.?
While some traditional green jobs require substantial green skills and professional knowledge, however, there are some roles that may not necessarily require heavy green skills to perform and can be found in different sectors such as food, fashion, retail, and government.
As outlined in Linkedin's Global Green Skills Report 2022, “greening jobs” and “greening potential jobs” are jobs that can be performed without green skills, but may require some level of green knowledge to integrate sustainability practices into an existing role or process. For example, a marketing professional can promote sustainable products and services for the company, while an experienced project manager may transform his/her role to a sustainability consultant to help organizations develop and implement sustainable practices.
Every job is a green job, if we look from a wider perspective. There is an opportunity to contribute to sustainability efforts no matter your position or industry.
The Prospect of the Global and Hong Kong Green Job Market
The global green job market is expanding rapidly, according to the ILO’s World Employment Social Outlook 2018. The report predicts that 24 million new jobs will be created globally by 2030 if the right policies and sustainable practices are adopted, offsetting the job loss of around 6 million in the carbon- and resource-intensive industries.
LinkedIn's Global Green Skills Report 2023 has also noted that the demand for green talent is growing faster than the supply between 2022-2023, with 22.4% growth in paid job postings requiring at least one green skill compared to only 12.3% growth of green talent in the workforce. This presents a significant opportunity for those looking to upskill and enter the growing green industry.
Hong Kong is no exception to this trend, with the government setting a target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. This has led to a growing need for professionals who can help to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable practices. Furthermore, companies in Hong Kong are reportedly paying 30% more for Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) jobs in competing for the right green talent.
The green job industry in Hong Kong has promising growth potential and presents an exciting opportunity for job seekers looking to make a positive impact on the environment.
Pursuing a Green Career Without Technical Skills
It is a common myth that only people with technical skills or a STEM background can pursue a green career. In fact, green jobs are not limited to people in science or engineering. Even if you don't have a specific set of technical skills, there are still many opportunities to pursue a green career. Skills such as communication, project management, marketing, finance, and policy development also play a crucial role in supporting sustainability. The key is to identify your strengths, interests, and values, and then seek out opportunities that align with your goals.
5 Tips to Get Yourself Prepare for a Green Job
If you are interested in pursuing a career in sustainability, there are several things that can be done to prepare for starting a green job.?
1. Get Educated and Build Your Skillsets
While it's not necessary to have an environmental-related degree to land certain green jobs, studying sustainability or environmental studies can provide you with the knowledge and perspective of looking at the challenges in the natural environment and discussing possible solutions. You could also match up the skillsets needed for green jobs when you are choosing your field of study. Some sustainability-related careers require diverse skills, from technical knowledge to project management and communication skills. Reading requirements for job postings will give you a hint of what green skills and knowledge to develop.
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Aside from a formal education degree, consider taking online short courses on platforms like Coursera, edX, and Linkedin learning to gain a fast and free glimpse into green jobs and sustainable careers. Continuous learning helps you grow professionally and opens up more opportunities.
2. Gain Relevant Work or Volunteer Experience
Working as a green volunteer or doing internships or part-time jobs in sustainability-related fields can provide valuable experience and help build your resume and soft skills. Joining a club, organisation, or program that is focused on sustainability can also help explore your real interest, and build skills and connections in the field.?
3. Stay Up-to-date on Trends and Technologies
The green job market is constantly evolving, so it's essential to follow selected topics, key people, and companies of interest to enlarge your network and stay updated on the latest green industry information.
4. Grow Your Network
Building connections in the industry can help open doors and provide opportunities for career advancement. Attend conferences and events or engage in coffee chats related to sustainability to meet other professionals in the field.?
5. Find a Mentor
A mentor can provide valuable guidance and advice as you navigate your career. Connect with people who have experience in your field of interest and who share your values and goals. Check out the opportunities from Climate Incubator and be ready to join our next Green Mentorship Program!
The Time is Now
The green economy is constantly evolving, and new job opportunities are emerging all the time. Be open to exploring new fields and industries, and don't be afraid to take risks! Young people who are passionate about sustainability can find fulfilling careers in this field. Prepare yourself for a green career that allows you to make a positive impact on the world.?
Follow Climate Incubator on Linkedin or Instagram to know more about the available resources and activities!
The future is green, and the opportunities in this field are endless.
Photo source: Unsplash
Digital & Content Marketing
1 年Thank you for sharing the tips. It is an informative guide for self-starter
Content Writer | Social Media | Paid Media | Digital Media Marketing | MBA
1 年Such a great initiative and insightful blog!