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Want to Succeed in the Sustainability Field? Start with These 6 Steps
Zyad Hatquai
November 19, 2024
In partnership with
What is the Future of Sustainability Jobs? Here are 6 Things You Must Do to Boost Your Career
Coming from a country with an above-average unemployment rate, I’ve always been focused on developing in-demand skills and aligning with market needs to stand out in the job market. This mindset helped me secure opportunities even when the odds weren’t in my favor. Now, living in a country with one of the lowest unemployment rates in the EU-27, I still firmly believe that adapting to market demands gives you the upper hand when it comes to career growth.
One of the biggest shifts I’ve observed in the job market today is the rise of corporate sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles. These are no longer optional for businesses—they’ve become essential drivers of success, whether for managing risks, maintaining market access, or meeting regulatory requirements. From global policy changes to rising consumer expectations, sustainability is transforming how industries operate.
As a result, jobs in sustainability are growing rapidly, presenting immense opportunities for professionals who can align their skills with this evolving field. But here’s the key to standing out: it’s not just about having the right technical skills. Passion and adaptability play an equally important role.
If you’ve made it this far, I’ll assume you already have the passion for sustainability. Now, let’s break down the 6 steps you need to take to build a successful career in this thriving field.
Here’s how you can position yourself to thrive in this exciting landscape:
1. Understand the Rapid Growth of Sustainability and ESG
The global drive toward sustainability is not just reshaping industries—it’s revolutionizing the very nature of work. Governments worldwide, from the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) to similar initiatives in Asia, North America, and beyond, are enforcing stricter regulations. These policies mandate transparency, requiring companies to disclose their ESG impacts and implement sustainable practices.
At the same time, investors are using ESG criteria to evaluate businesses, and consumers are demanding eco-conscious products and services. This is not just a European phenomenon—it’s global. From supply chains to finance, sustainability is embedded in every aspect of business strategy.
Let’s be honest—this might sound like a cliché, but sustainability is no longer a "nice-to-have." It has become a business imperative. Companies that fail to integrate ESG into their operations risk losing market share, access to capital, and, perhaps most critically, public trust.
What does this mean for professionals?
The demand for individuals who can navigate ESG principles, align them with business objectives, and bring innovation to sustainability challenges has never been higher.
Takeaway:
Stay informed about global ESG trends and regulations. Understand how sustainability is evolving from a regulatory requirement to a core component of business strategy. Being ahead of these changes will position you as a valuable asset in this rapidly growing field.
2. Recognize the Fastest-Growing Areas in Sustainability
When building a career, I’ve always believed in focusing on high-demand areas—fields where the need for expertise is strong and growing. Sustainability is a broad discipline, but within it, certain areas are experiencing exponential growth due to their strategic importance. Here are three areas poised to define the future of sustainability:
Sustainable Procurement
Supply chains are under the microscope as companies work to meet regulatory requirements and consumer expectations for transparency. While many organizations have been focused on greening their internal operations, addressing the supply chain is a relatively new frontier for many. This area demands a unique skill set, including supplier engagement, certification management, and the ability to navigate complex global networks. Professionals in sustainable procurement play a critical role in ensuring every link in the supply chain aligns with ethical and environmental standards.
Decarbonization
Achieving net-zero emissions has become a top priority for governments and organizations worldwide. Decarbonization involves improving energy efficiency, electrifying industrial processes, investing in renewable energy, and managing emissions.
This field is at the top of every organization’s agenda, making expertise in areas such as energy management, emissions reduction, renewable energy sourcing, and green electricity procurement incredibly valuable. Having these skills can position you steps ahead in a market where demand for them is skyrocketing.
Circularity
The transition from a linear to a circular economy is rapidly gaining momentum. Circularity is about more than just recycling—it’s about rethinking the entire lifecycle of a product, from resource extraction and design to production, usage, and eventually closing the loop or disposing of materials sustainably.
This transformation touches every aspect of an organization’s resource flow, requiring systems thinking, creative problem-solving, and a strong grasp of product lifecycle management.
Takeaway:
These areas are not just growing—they are becoming indispensable. Identifying which of these aligns with your skills and interests will help you carve out a specialization, making you a sought-after expert in the sustainability field.
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3. Understand Why These Areas are Becoming Mainstream
Sustainability roles are no longer optional—they’re becoming a cornerstone of business strategy across all industries. This shift is driven by several key factors that make sustainability and ESG a priority for organizations worldwide:
Regulations
Governments across the globe are introducing policies to enforce sustainable practices. For instance, the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is designed to curb carbon emissions and ensure accountability in international trade. Similar policies are emerging globally, creating an urgent need for businesses to align with these frameworks.
Economic Pressure
Resource depletion, rising pollution costs, and the escalating impacts of climate-related risks are forcing companies to act. Sustainable practices are no longer about reputation alone—they’re about managing risks, reducing costs, and ensuring long-term viability in a competitive market.
Stakeholder Demand
The pressure to prioritize sustainability comes not only from governments but also from investors, consumers, and employees. Investors are seeking ESG-aligned portfolios, consumers are favoring eco-conscious brands, and employees are looking to work for organizations with a strong sense of purpose.
A Universal Business Shift
Sustainability is no longer confined to "green" industries. From energy and technology to finance and retail, every sector is incorporating sustainability into its core operations. Whether it’s designing greener products, sourcing renewable energy, or creating circular supply chains, sustainability is influencing every aspect of modern business.
Takeaway:
Understanding the "why" behind the mainstream adoption of sustainability provides valuable insights into its longevity and importance. It’s not just a trend—it’s a fundamental shift. Recognizing these drivers will help you anticipate opportunities and position yourself as a leader in this rapidly evolving field.
4. Know How Sustainability Fits Across Sectors
Sustainability is not confined to a single industry—it’s a transformative force shaping nearly every sector. From manufacturing to technology, finance, and retail, organizations are adapting to integrate ESG principles into their operations.
Manufacturing
Manufacturers are focusing on sustainable materials, energy-efficient production methods, and waste reduction to reduce their environmental impact. This includes adopting circular economy practices, such as designing products for repair, reuse, and recycling.
Technology
Tech companies are addressing energy consumption in data centers—some of the world’s largest energy consumers—and are adopting circularity in product design, creating devices with longer lifespans and recyclable components. The tech industry also plays a key role in advancing sustainability by providing innovative solutions like AI for energy optimization and blockchain for supply chain transparency.
Finance
Financial institutions are taking the lead in driving ESG adoption through green bonds, ESG-aligned portfolios, and financing projects that prioritize sustainability. Banks and investment firms are not just complying with regulations—they are setting benchmarks for sustainable investing and encouraging clients to transition to greener operations.
Retail
Retailers are rethinking every aspect of their business, from ethical sourcing and sustainable packaging to circular supply chains. Consumers increasingly demand transparency about the origins of products and the environmental impact of their purchases, prompting retailers to embrace sustainability as a competitive advantage.
Other Industries
Even sectors like healthcare, logistics, and construction are evolving to adopt ESG principles. Whether it’s reducing emissions in transportation, using renewable energy in hospitals, or adopting green building certifications, sustainability is influencing all corners of the economy.
Takeaway:
Sustainability offers opportunities across a wide range of industries. No matter your background, you can find a way to contribute by identifying how ESG principles align with the unique needs of your sector. Adapting your expertise to sustainability can help you carve out a niche and stay ahead in this rapidly changing landscape.
5. Build the Skills and Knowledge to Excel
Thriving in sustainability roles requires a combination of technical expertise and broader competencies. As the field continues to evolve, professionals must be equipped with the right skills to navigate complex challenges and drive impactful change.
Core Skills for Sustainability Careers
Analytical Skills: The ability to analyze and interpret ESG metrics, carbon accounting data, and environmental impact reports is fundamental. These skills help organizations measure progress and identify areas for improvement.
Communication: Clear and effective communication is essential to convey sustainability strategies to stakeholders, from C-suite executives to external partners. Storytelling can also play a crucial role in making data relatable and actionable.
Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with frameworks such as the GHG Protocol, Science-Based Targets, and life cycle analysis (LCA) is highly valued. These tools are foundational for measuring emissions, setting reduction goals, and improving product sustainability.
Broader Competencies
Adaptability: Sustainability is a rapidly evolving field influenced by changing regulations, technologies, and market demands. The ability to adapt and stay ahead of these changes is a vital skill.
Collaboration: Sustainability efforts often span multiple departments—from operations and supply chain to marketing and HR. Working collaboratively ensures cohesive strategies and successful implementation.
Leadership: Driving organizational change requires strong leadership skills. Whether you’re fostering a culture of sustainability or leading specific initiatives, the ability to inspire and guide others is invaluable.
How to Develop These Skills
Upskilling: Enroll in courses or programs focused on sustainability, such as certifications in ESG reporting or renewable energy management.
Networking: Join industry associations or attend conferences to learn from peers and experts.
Real-World Experience: Seek internships, projects, or roles that expose you to practical applications of sustainability principles. Hands-on experience is one of the best ways to solidify your skills.
Takeaway:
To excel in sustainability, invest in developing both technical and soft skills. Upskilling through courses, certifications, and hands-on experience will not only keep you competitive but also position you as a leader in this transformative field.
6. Start Your Journey in Sustainability
If you’re ready to take the leap into the dynamic world of sustainability, the first step is building a strong foundation. A deep understanding of ESG principles and their real-world applications is essential for navigating this rapidly evolving field and unlocking career opportunities.
One of the best ways to begin is by enrolling in a course tailored to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice. That’s where The ESG Masterclass for Non-Experts comes in.
💡 Why this masterclass?
Simplifies complexity: Breaks down ESG concepts into practical, easy-to-understand insights.
Equips you for action: Offers real-world strategies for implementing ESG across environmental, social, and governance domains.
Supports your career: Provides exclusive resources like an ESG Terminology Cheat Sheet and a comprehensive ESG Career Guide to help you navigate your path.
Whether you’re transitioning into sustainability or looking to expand your expertise, this masterclass gives you the confidence and tools to succeed in this exciting field.
👉 Ready to begin? Register for the waitlist today to be the first to know when the course launches—and secure a 20% discount!
Takeaway:
The journey to a successful sustainability career starts with the right resources. Equip yourself with the knowledge and skills to stand out and make a meaningful impact. Build your roadmap, take the first step, and start growing your expertise today.
The Future is Green—Are You Ready?
The future of work is sustainable. By understanding the rapid growth of ESG, exploring high-demand areas like procurement, decarbonization, and circularity, and investing in the right skills, you can position yourself as a leader in this exciting field.
👉 Ready to make an impact? Join the waitlist for the ESG for Non-Experts Masterclass and take the first step toward a rewarding career in sustainability.
The future of work is green. Will you be part of it?
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