Environmental jobs: What you need to know

By Josefa Cagoco27 July 2009

Environmental experts are needed for a growing number of development initiatives, such as one backed by the U.S. Agency for International Development near Epulu, in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Above: A river flowing through the Okapi Fauna Reserve in the Epulu vicinity. Photo by: J. Doremus/USAID

Ongoing talks on a new global framework for climate change adaptation and mitigation draw attention to how consequential work in the environmental sector is to the world’s future.

A whole range of talents and skills are needed, but a solid background in the sciences and adept policy maneuvering are indispensable.

The United Nations Environment Program and others have pointed out that continuing efforts around the world to reduce the adverse impact of climate change have already generated millions of new green jobs in various sectors and economies.

The potential to create many more in both developed and developing countries is enormous as governments, businesses and households find alternative and sustainable means to create, harness and utilize finite energy resources.

About the author

Josefa Cagoco

Sef Cagoco served as one of Devex's international development correspondent from mid-2008 to mid-2009. Her writing focused on social entrepreneurship and multilateral agencies such as the U.N. and Asian Development Bank. She previously worked as senior reporter for the national daily BusinessWorld and a production journalist for the Financial Times.