There are many career options that can help you address the issue of climate change. Some of these include environmental economists, disaster preparedness professionals, and conservation scientists. There are many other possibilities. Continue reading to see a list highlighting some of the most sought-after jobs in climate change.
Conservation scientists
Conservation scientists use scientific expertise to protect natural resources like flora or fauna. They also work with private landowners and government agencies in order to assess the state of their environment. These professionals typically hold a bachelor’s degree with a background in ecology, biology, or forest management. They might also have some experience in computer modeling, remote sensing, and geographic information systems.
To conduct their research, conservation scientists use many types of equipment and tools. These tools include clinometers and diameter tapes, increment borers, bark gauges and geographic information system. They also use GPS technology and handheld computers to study maps.
Ecologists
In addition to developing policies and programs to promote sustainability, environmental economists analyze data and produce financial projections to assess the economic costs of environmental regulations. Their work might include researching the environmental effects of global warming and polluting, estimating the costs to repair damaged environments and devising strategies for reducing human impact on them.
Typically, environmental economists require a graduate degree, but some entry-level positions are available with a bachelor's degree. Advanced degrees are required for higher-level jobs. Candidates should have strong economic and mathematics backgrounds.
Geoscientists
Geoscientists are faced with many challenges, including rising sea levels and the need for natural disaster protection. However, their work is not limited to protecting the environment. Rising sea levels and climate change affect coastal cities and infrastructure, requiring detailed analysis and research by geologists, engineers and biologists. With an increasing global population, geoscientists may be needed to enhance community resilience to natural dangers like earthquakes or floods. Skilled geologists will also be required for the transition to renewable energy.
A bright future awaits those who want to pursue geoscience careers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in geoscience fields is projected to grow at an average of 5% over the next decade, a faster rate than the average job growth in other professions. Many baby-boomers, who began their careers in early 1980s, are a part of the increasing demand. Their retirements will create a large number of new opportunities for geoscientists.
Disaster preparedness professionals
As a result of climate change, disaster preparedness professionals must expand their skills to respond to emergencies. These professionals are not limited to dealing with disasters related to the weather, but they are also responsible for disease epidemics and environmental concerns. For example, rising sea level could result in flooding or land erosion in coastal cities. Disaster preparedness professionals can assist communities in rebuilding and managing their resources to meet this increasing threat.
Climate change has had an impact on the human population worldwide. Government departments often deal with disaster planning issues in local communities. However, those who are proactive about disaster preparedness consider a global perspective. They might plan for large-scale migrations of refugees from neighbouring countries. They may also develop disaster management plans that incorporate social services.
Technicians who service wind turbines
One of the many jobs in the green energy sector is that of a wind turbine service technician. They require physical fitness because they are often required to climb multiple towers during a workday. They should also be trained in various safety procedures.
The fastest growing sector in the labour market is the renewable energy industry. The employment of wind turbine technicians is expected to increase by 61% over the next decade. With thousands of job opportunities in this industry, solar photovoltaic technicians will see the same growth. These jobs can often be obtained at a reduced cost if one completes a technical training course.