– By Anupam Kumar
A few days back, while returning home, I stumbled upon an 8-year-old boy in the outskirts of Bangalore living in what we called a semi-pukka house. In our conversations, I happen to ask him what his biggest wish is. The question was meant for a random small talk but what he told me was completely astonishing. He said that his only wish is that his house does not get submerged in water again during the floods. As heartbreaking as it is to see an 8-year-old having this conversation, it is also a reality check that climate change is real and that you might not feel it in your daily life, but it affects us all.
As I write, Delhi recorded the highest temperature ever while temperature rises on the Tibetan Plateau are causing Himalayan glaciers to retreat, threatening the flow rate of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, Yamuna and other major rivers. Overall temperatures in India have risen by 0.7 °C (1.3 °F) between 1901 and 2018 and according to current projections, the number and severity of droughts in India will have markedly increased by the end of the present century.
Thus, the billion, probably trillion-dollar question is: How do we solve this problem at scale and how do we manage to keep global warming to less than 1.5 degrees as agreed at the Paris accords. The answer may be many things. Yes, government policies and ecosystem collaboration will play a very vital role, but I believe that to solve the problem at scale, what we need today is environmental advocacy and people passionate about climate change crafting career opportunities that blend purpose and passion with profession.
The Genesis of a Green Calling
For many, the journey into environmental advocacy begins with a pivotal moment—witnessing a river choked with plastic, seeing a forest decimated by illegal logging, or feeling the firsthand effects of air pollution. For instance, Greta Thunberg’s journey began with solitary protests outside the Swedish parliament, leading to a global movement. Her story underscores a crucial point: impactful advocacy often starts with a single, resolute individual.
Transforming this passion into a profession typically starts with education. Environmental science, sustainable development, and green technologies are burgeoning fields in academia. Universities worldwide are now offering specialized programs aimed at equipping students with the skills needed to tackle environmental challenges. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the number of degrees awarded in natural resources and conservation has increased by 57% over the last decade, reflecting growing interest and demand.
Diverse Career Opportunities
The career paths in environmental advocacy are as varied as the issues themselves. Non-profit organizations like the World Wildlife Fund and Greenpeace offer roles ranging from on-the-ground conservation work to high-level policy advocacy. Public sector jobs in agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) focus on regulatory roles and environmental protection initiatives. In the private sector, companies are increasingly hiring sustainability officers to ensure eco-friendly practices. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in environmental science and specialist roles is projected to grow 8% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
One notable example is the career of Dr. Jane Goodall. Starting as a young woman passionate about chimpanzees, she turned her research into the world-renowned Jane Goodall Institute, which not only advances wildlife conservation but also promotes sustainable livelihoods in local communities. Her work exemplifies how dedicated advocacy can lead to global impact and a sustainable career.
Another inspiring figure is Katharine Hayhoe, a climate scientist who bridges the gap between science and public understanding. As Chief Scientist for The Nature Conservancy, her work in climate communication demonstrates how environmental advocacy can be both impactful and financially rewarding. According to PayScale, the average salary for a chief sustainability officer in the U.S. is around $120,000 annually, showcasing the financial viability of high-level positions in this field.
While the path from passion to paycheck in environmental advocacy is promising, it is not without challenges. Funding can be unpredictable, particularly for non-profit organizations, and the work often requires navigating complex political landscapes. However, the intrinsic rewards—seeing a polluted waterway restored, influencing policy change, or educating the next generation of eco-warriors—are immeasurable.
Take the example of Leah Thomas, founder of Intersectional Environmentalist. Combining her advocacy for environmental justice with a focus on marginalized communities, she has turned her passion into a platform that amplifies diverse voices in the environmental movement. Her work highlights the potential for advocacy to not only drive environmental change but also promote social justice.
A Call to Action
Turning a passion for environmental advocacy into a rewarding career requires dedication, education, and often, a bit of entrepreneurial spirit. As the world grapples with environmental crises, the demand for skilled, passionate advocates is higher than ever. By harnessing educational opportunities, staying resilient through challenges, and remaining committed to the cause, individuals can indeed turn their fervour for the planet into a fulfilling and financially sustainable career.
In the words of Wangari Maathai, Nobel Peace Prize laureate and founder of the Green Belt Movement: “It’s the little things citizens do. That’s what will make the difference. My little thing is planting trees.” For those driven by a passion for the environment, their “little thing” can blossom into a career that not only supports them but also heals the planet.
(Anupam Kumar is the founder and CEO at MiniMines.)
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