5 Reasons to Pursue a Career in Sustainable Studies

Sustainability is the talk of the hour.

Sustainability, by definition, means meeting the needs of the present generations while preserving resources for future generations as well. The Brundtland report, 1987 defines sustainability as “a holistic approach that considers ecological, social and economic dimensions, recognizing that all must be considered together to find lasting prosperity.” It is important to have a sustainable approach in industries because a lack of integrated social planning limits the world’s ability to meet human needs now and in the future. A degree in sustainability entails studying the concerns about sustainability and how we can address these problems in new and innovative ways that would help us maintain an ecological, social and economical balance.

UN Sustainable Development Goals

The United Nations has been addressing its concerns towards sustainability and in its report on Sustainable Development, where they talk about 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs) to transform the world.

It is important to acknowledge these goals to understand what the study of sustainable studies is composed of. This gives us a deep insight into the curriculum of Sustainable Studies.


So, why should you consider a career in Sustainable Studies?

1. Diverse career opportunities 

A sustainability studies graduation degree opens up ample opportunities in a range of industries. There is a vast variety of careers in all public, private and non-profit institutions. These jobs range from environmental attorneys, urban planners, water resource engineers, wildlife conservationists, researchers, sustainability consultants, policy-making, environmental geologists, eco-tourism, environmental engineers and legislative correspondents. 

2. Fast-growing job sector

As per various resources, jobs in environmental and sustainable careers are thriving. Also, many companies are adopting sustainable practices increasing demand for people with specialized knowledge in the same. The job role of careers in sustainable management involve a balanced fusion between different sectors like environmental, social, economical and cultural. 


3. High job satisfaction

A survey carried out by the Global sustainability body IEMA deduced that the sustainable ‘green’ career workforce was ‘highly satisfied’ with their jobs. Satisfaction in this field is majorly because of the nature of the work. It provides ample opportunities to give back to nature. Factors like pay rises, stable employment and career mobility are also among contributing factors for the higher satisfaction of workers in this sector. 

In addition to that, it also aids in improving the quality of life today and having a better future. Such a career is not only beneficial for the employees, but also for the masses. 


4. Renewable- an emerging market

The principle of sustainable development is to consume in order to conserve and fulfil the demands of resources for future generations. In order to achieve that goal, a transition from non-renewable energy to renewable energy is encouraged. Hence, opening a field of renewables as an emerging market that has a vast variety of jobs available for sustainable job seekers. 

Some popular options among them are wind turbine technician, energy transition technical specialist, renewable energy asset, sustainable management, energy analyst, energy law associate, field intern, sales intern, etc.

5. Entrepreneurship opportunities

Increasing awareness about sustainable goods and services is creating new and emerging markets. Even the Government of India is promoting sustainable startups through its flagship schemes like sustainable finance schemes to exclusively fund those startups working towards energy-efficient and cleaner production.

Universities offering courses for sustainability studies

Sustainable studies is a popular course in India as well as abroad. Some top institutions providing this course are:

Universities in India:

  • Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur

  • Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi

  • Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai

  • University of Delhi (multiple colleges)

  • Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur

  • Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi

  • Indian Institute of Management, Lucknow

  • Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad

  • MIT school of management, Pune

Universities Abroad: 

  • Sustainability Management School, Switzerland

  • University of Dundee, United Kingdom

  • University of Derby, United Kingdom

  • University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom

  • University of Western Ontario, Canada

  • University of Saskatchewan, Canada

  • Lipscomb University, United States

  • University of Florida, United States

  • The University of Melbourne, Australia

Written by: Anmol Arora & Kasturi Gouri

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