Jobs of the future: How do I become a sustainability manager?

15 May 2019

Turning to eco-friendly technologies and durable architectural advancements, universities worldwide are upping their game and transforming campuses into green, sustainable learning environments.

Spurred by the latest eco trends, the world’s first university tenders database U2B highlights the need for universities to boost their sustainability credentials and explores a new report that suggests they should look to solar power for a cost-effective eco-alternative.

“Not only does solar investment lower costs in the long run and improve the health of students, it can also present a fantastic learning opportunity,” U2B explains.

“Many universities that have installed a solar project go on to use it for STEM-related case studies for students, teaching them how to track energy data and understanding how weather and the angle of the sun affects the panels.”

Should all universities go solar? Source: Andreas Gucklhorn/Unsplash

Not only would the use of sustainable power methods benefit university budgets, it would also inspire current and future students to jump on board with eco trends and opt for a degree that leads them to a rewarding and relevant role.

That’s why the job outline for a sustainability manager is becoming an increasingly attractive work option.

Known to coordinate sustainability activities among internal departments, external agencies and community organisations, this role requires effective communication skills, a passion for all things eco and attention to detail.

By applying for this role, you’ll be expected to critically evaluate proposed sustainability measures in your company, as well as design sustainable impact programmes and produce high-quality reports to reflect on the company’s overall sustainability progress.

What do I study?

To achieve managerial status in the fields of sustainability, both an undergraduate and postgraduate degree may be required.

Typically, a degree in a sustainability- or environment-related field will benefit you in the job application process, as this level of education is something other candidates may not have.

For undergraduate level, look out for the following degrees or specialisms:

Bachelor of Arts in Business with Sustainability Focus
Bachelor of Sustainability
Bachelor of Arts of Sustainable Management
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Sustainability Management

For postgraduate level, lean towards a Master’s degree in these fields:

Master of Science in Environmental Sciences
Master of Architecture – Sustainable Buildings
Master of Science in Energy Policy and Science
Master of Public Health – Environmental and Occupational Health Focus
Master of Science in Environmental Studies

The list is no doubt endless and there’s a variety of universities around the world that will cater to your favourite discipline.

But if you’re going for a sustainability manager role, it may be wise to keep your skill set broad and stay away from specialisms as companies may prefer a well-rounded approach.

The time to change is now. Source: Shutterstock

Become a sustainable trend-setter

On a final note, if you’re aiming to work in the future world of eco-jobs, don’t be afraid to implement the newest eco trends in your future company.

It may appear daring at first, but remember, you’re trying to better both the company, its people and the planet.

If you’re striving to become a dedicated sustainability manager, become a trend-setter and change thought patterns and processes for the better!

By going the extra mile in your job, you may also be going the extra length to sustain important materials and processes that we will one day run out of in the future.

A key role taking us into the fourth industrial revolution and further, you’ll find jobs in both the public and private sector, driven by a degree that tries to tackle environmental threats and challenges.

‘BioSolar Leaves’ are better at cleaning the air than trees, say the technology’s developers https://t.co/GJKzeM8ymN #environment pic.twitter.com/cxVrA9Ylua

— World Economic Forum (@wef) May 13, 2019