Since the ‘60s, the warming effect of carbon dioxide has been well documented, yet little progress has been made in terms of addressing the overwhelming issue of climate change. Younger generations are changing that. With their futures ahead of them, more and more young people have chosen a career path that allows them to be part of the solution.
Sustainability IS a Sustainable Career Path
Previously thought of as a frivolous major, this is no longer the case regarding Environmental Studies. In fact, the opposite is true as employment opportunities are increasing at a rate higher than most other industries. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts opportunities for employment as an Environmental Scientist or Specialist will grow by 8% over the next 10 years.
With more students interested in studying Environmental Science, colleges across the country are actively expanding their programs. Not only are they introducing new environmental majors, but also minors and intersectional classes. These additional options allow students of all disciplines to understand sustainability and how it intersects with their major. For example, the University of Southern California’s Sustainability Across the Curriculum program integrates sustainability into existing courses and develops new courses, thereby creating new minors for interdisciplinary studies.
What’s more? Studying sustainability can boost a resume and potentially increase job security. As more companies take action against climate change, they are highly interested in employees that can do both the job at hand and consult on operational sustainability.
Keep Riding
For the horseman in all of us, remember that it is possible to balance a career with riding. Many environmental professionals actively compete as amateurs, from marine biologists and climate change researchers to college professors and sustainability consultants.
The Other Option? Work in the Equine Industry
Consider becoming an entrepreneur and using your environmental education to improve the sustainability of farm operations, horse shows, and equine businesses. As demand for sustainability increases, more business and show venues will need environmental consultants that fully understand the equine industry.
A Final Note
Now is the time to pursue an environmental career, as the industry is growing faster than ever. With the growing availability of environmental courses and interdisciplinary studies, anyone can be an environmental leader at work. A sustainable career path is a fulfilling one.
Green Is the New Blue hopes to inspire young equestrians to pursue an Environmental Education. For a list of Environmental Majors offered by each school attending the College Preparatory Invitational, click here.
If you have any questions about environmental studies or careers, please use our GreenSociety forum. We would love to hear from you!