The sustainability sector is on the brink of unprecedented growth. By 2050, the demand for green skills will more than double, yet the current talent pool is far from sufficient to meet this need (LinkedIn Global Green Skills Report 2024). With the green transition projected to create 34 million additional jobs by 2030 (WEF Future of Jobs Report 2023), there has never been a better time to carve out your career in sustainability.
Whether you’re already in the field or looking to make the leap, this guide will help you align your skills with future demands, set actionable goals, and grow your career in a sector that is critical to our collective future.
The Landscape of Green Careers
As businesses ramp up efforts to reduce emissions and adapt to climate change, sustainability is becoming central to organisational transformation. Nearly half of employers identify sustainability initiatives as key drivers for future change. Green jobs—roles that contribute to environmental preservation and climate resilience—are proving resilient, with stable hiring rates even during economic disruptions.
Some in-demand green roles include:
- Renewable energy specialists
- Circular economy strategists
- Sustainable product designers
- CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive) experts
However, it’s not just technical expertise that’s needed. Systems thinkers, creative communicators, and impact strategists are equally vital.
Align Your Skills with the Future
We have clear targets to meet—the SDGs, national and international climate goals, and corporate sustainability commitments. Now it’s about finding your role in this global effort. Here are a few examples to inspire you:
- Skill Transfer: Take a cue from Ørsted, a company that transitioned from fossil fuels to becoming the largest offshore wind power developer. By retraining their workforce, they proved that existing skills in energy, engineering, and production could drive renewable energy solutions.
- Adaptable Expertise: Roles like CSRD reporting are perfect for those with accounting and finance backgrounds. No one is an “expert” yet, making it an ideal space to upskill and showcase transferable knowledge.
- Tech & Design: From eco-friendly product design to sustainable web development, there are growing opportunities for designers, UX specialists, and developers to make an impact.
What can you do now?
- Identify how your current skills intersect with sustainability needs.
- Upskill through targeted courses or certifications.
- Seek projects or volunteer opportunities that align with green initiatives.
Overcoming Barriers: Getting Started
Many people worry about the “experience gap” when transitioning to sustainability roles. Here’s how to build a portfolio of relevant experience:
- Frame Your Skills: Highlight how your expertise is green economy-adjacent. For example, project management skills are invaluable in renewable energy initiatives.
- Leverage Your Role: Integrate sustainability practices into your current job. For example, you could lead a recycling initiative or propose energy-saving measures for your current team.
- Launch Your Own Projects: Starting something small—like a community garden or a sustainability blog—can demonstrate initiative and passion.
- Pursue Further Education: Short courses, workshops, or certifications can help you acquire niche knowledge quickly.
A Simple Goal-Setting Exercise
Ready to take the next step? Here’s a quick exercise to help you define your vision and set actionable goals. Find a quiet space, set a 10-15 minute timer per section, and answer the following questions:
- Free Write:
- What excites you most about sustainability right now?
- What are your current skills, strengths, or experiences that could be valuable in sustainability?
- What skill or experience would you like to develop in the next 12 months?
- Visioning: Close your eyes and imagine it’s five years from now. Ask yourself:
- What does your day look like in a sustainability role that fulfills you?
- Who are you working with?
- What impact are you making?
- Note: We find it helps to answer these questions in the form of a full diary entry, including details about the life you want in a wider sense, for example, where do you live, how do you spend your free time, etc. This can help you realise your ideal work life balance and surroundings.
- Set SMART* Goals:
- For the next six months: What specific steps can you take to move closer to your vision? (e.g., “Complete a certification in carbon accounting by June”)
- For the next 1-3 years: What broader objectives will help solidify your career trajectory?
*SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound.
Why Partner with The Now Work
At The Now Work, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities in the sustainability sector. With a network of over 2,000 independent sustainability experts, we connect talent with projects that drive real impact. Whether you’re a leader seeking to build a sustainable future for your organisation or a professional looking to grow your career, we’re here to help.
Get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can support your journey.
