Become aSustainability Specialist

Are you passionate about saving the planet? Becoming a Sustainability Specialist allows you to channel your passion into action. This career offers the chance to be at the heart of sustainable development, making tangible changes that benefit the earth and future generations. Plus, as businesses and governments worldwide strive for greener practices, the demand for skilled specialists is booming!

A Sustainability Specialist works to reduce an organisation’s environmental impact. This could mean creating strategies to reduce waste, improving energy efficiency, or ensuring products are made sustainably. You’ll also find yourself conducting research, analysing data, and presenting findings to persuade stakeholders to adopt more eco-friendly practices.

In this role, you’ll work out how to do more with less and reuse what we already have.

You could help the government, businesses or others learn how to reduce the impact of economic and social development on the planet via targeted strategies. 

You will also consider Aboriginal heritage approvals and assess the planning and implementation of projects through systems, processes, and standards.

Industries are increasingly recognising the importance of sustainability. As a specialist, you could find yourself working in:

• Renewable Energy
• Construction and Architecture
• Manufacturing
• Corporate Services
• Government and Policy
• Not for Profit Organisations

Each of these fields offers unique opportunities to drive sustainable change.

Being forward thinking is crucial as a great Sustainability Specialist. As well as mitigating issues in the present, you’ll plan for a carbon neutral future and implement climate change adaptation strategies. 

Analytical Skills

• Ability to assess and interpret environmental data and sustainability metrics.
• Proficiency in conducting environmental impact assessments and life cycle analyses.

Technical Proficiency

• Knowledge of sustainable practices and technologies.
• Familiarity with environmental regulations and standards.

Problem Solving Skills

• Ability to develop innovative solutions to environmental challenges.
• Skills in designing and implementing sustainability initiatives.

Communication Skills

• Strong written and verbal communication skills to effectively convey sustainability goals and strategies.
• Ability to educate and engage stakeholders, including employees, clients, and the public.

Project Management

• Experience in managing sustainability projects from planning to execution.
• Skills in coordinating cross-functional teams and managing budgets.

Leadership and Advocacy

• Ability to lead sustainability efforts within an organisation.
• Advocacy for sustainable practices and policies.

These skills will help you analyse data, develop effective strategies, and communicate your ideas clearly.

To prepare for a career as a Sustainability Specialist, Australian students should focus on the following STEM subjects:

Environmental Science

Provides foundational knowledge of ecosystems, climate change, and environmental conservation.

Biology

Helps in understanding living organisms and their interactions with the environment.

Chemistry

Essential for understanding chemical processes and their environmental impacts.

Mathematics

Important for data analysis, statistics, and problem solving.

Geography

Offers insights into physical and human geography, and the relationship between people and the environment.

Physics

Provides an understanding of energy systems and physical processes in the environment.

From designing green spaces in urban areas to working on projects that convert waste to energy, Sustainability Specialists work on innovative projects that have a real impact. Imagine being part of a team that creates a zero waste city or develops new renewable energy sources!

Develop Renewable Energy Projects

Implement solar, wind, and other renewable energy projects to reduce carbon footprints.

Create Sustainable Business Practices

Design and promote practices that reduce waste and improve energy efficiency in businesses.

Conduct Environmental Audits

Assess the environmental impact of organisations and suggest improvements.

Implement Green Building Initiatives

Promote the construction and renovation of buildings using sustainable materials and practices.

Advocate for Environmental Policies

Work with governments and organisations to develop and implement policies that protect the environment.

Engage in Conservation Efforts

Lead projects that protect natural habitats and endangered species.

Educate and Inspire

Develop educational programs and workshops to raise awareness about sustainability.

Innovate in Waste Management

Create systems for reducing, reusing, and recycling waste materials.

Work on Climate Change Mitigation

Develop strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change impacts.

Collaborate with Communities

Engage with local communities to promote sustainable practices and improve environmental health.

While the title “Sustainability Specialist” might not always be used, there are many influential figures known for their contributions to sustainability and environmental protection. Many women  have made significant impacts in areas related to sustainability:

Veena Sahajwalla

An internationally recognised materials scientist, engineer, and inventor, Veena Sahajwalla is pioneering the field of sustainable materials. She is well known for her innovations in recycling science, particularly the transformation of waste into valuable materials. Sahajwalla’s work includes the development of green steelmaking processes that use recycled plastics and rubber tires as a replacement for coke and coal.

Jessica Allen

A leading researcher in renewable energy, Jessica Allen’s work focuses on developing technologies for energy storage and conversion. Her research aims at making renewable energy sources more efficient and accessible, contributing significantly to the sustainability sector. Allen’s work in developing hydrogen storage solutions and improving solar energy systems showcases the critical role of innovation in advancing sustainability goals.

These individuals exemplify how one can contribute to sustainability and environmental protection from various professional angles, underscoring the interdisciplinary nature of the field.

Undertaking a career as a Sustainability Specialist isn’t just about having a job – it’s about joining a global movement towards a sustainable future. If you’re inspired by the thought of making a real difference, here are some of the traits that may set you apart:

Creative

Finding innovative solutions to environmental issues.

Compassionate

Caring deeply about the planet and its inhabitants.

Ambitious

Striving to make significant changes.

Open Minded

Considering all solutions to find the best outcome.

Hardworking

Dedicated to making a sustainable difference.

Cooperative

Working well within teams to achieve environmental goals.

A career in sustainability is best begun with a strong foundation, and a University degree will give you a robust and deep understanding of the principles of sustainability and how to impact tangible change.

Bachelor of Environmental Science

University of Melbourne offers comprehensive courses in environmental science and sustainability.

Griffith University focuses on practical and theoretical aspects of environmental sustainability.

Bachelor of Environmental Management

University of Queensland (UQ) provides in depth knowledge of environmental policies and management practices.

University of New South Wales (UNSW) offers specialised courses in natural resources management and sustainability.

Bachelor of Science (Sustainability)

University of Sydney includes courses on sustainability science, renewable energy, and environmental ethics.

Monash University focuses on sustainable development and environmental sustainability.

Bachelor of Engineering (Environmental Engineering)

RMIT University Combines engineering principles with environmental science to develop sustainable solutions.

University of Western Australia (UWA) offers courses on water management, waste treatment, and sustainable infrastructure.

Master of Sustainability

University of Adelaide advanced program focusing on sustainability leadership and policy development.

Macquarie University provides specialised training in sustainable development and environmental management.

Interdisciplinary studies play a crucial role in preparing you for a career as a Sustainability Specialist. Combining degrees in environmental science with business, engineering, or social sciences can broaden your understanding of sustainability challenges and solutions. 

For example, learning about sustainable business practices alongside environmental science can equip you to implement sustainable strategies in corporate settings. 

Similarly, studying environmental engineering can provide you with the technical skills to develop innovative solutions for environmental conservation.

During your studies, you will learn about various aspects of sustainability, including environmental conservation, renewable energy, waste management, and sustainable development. You will gain knowledge about climate change, biodiversity, pollution control, and resource management, as well as the social, economic, and political dimensions of sustainability. Practical skills such as data analysis, project management, and communication are also essential for addressing sustainability challenges effectively.

Gaining work experience in sustainability related roles can enhance your skills and employability as a Sustainability Specialist. Exploring part time, casual or even volunteer jobs with environmental organisations, government agencies, or businesses can provide valuable experience. You can assist with sustainability initiatives, conduct research on environmental issues, or participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about sustainability issues.

If you prefer alternative pathways to traditional university degrees, there are options available to become a Sustainability Specialist.

Vocational Education and Training (VET) Courses

TAFE NSW offers a Diploma of Sustainable Practice focusing on practical skills in sustainability.

TAFE Queensland provides courses in environmental monitoring and technology.

Professional Certifications

Green Building Council of Australia offers certification programs like Green Star Accredited Professional.

International Society of Sustainability Professionals (ISSP) provides credentials like Certified Sustainability Professional (CSP).

Online Courses and Micro-Credentials

Coursera and edX offer various courses in sustainability, environmental science, and renewable energy from top universities.

Open Universities Australia provides access to online sustainability courses from multiple Australian universities.

Western Australia

In Western Australia, opportunities for Sustainability Specialists exist in various sectors, including renewable energy, mining, agriculture, and conservation. You could work for government departments, environmental agencies, or resource management companies, contributing to sustainability initiatives and environmental protection efforts across the state.

Australia

In Australia as a whole, Sustainability Specialists are in demand in industries such as urban planning, construction, tourism, and education. You could work for local councils, research institutes, or non-profit organisations, leading sustainability projects and promoting eco-friendly practices within communities.

Globally

Outside of Australia, global organisations, multinational corporations, and international charities offer career opportunities for Sustainability Specialists. You could work on international sustainability projects, collaborate with stakeholders from different countries, and contribute to global efforts to address climate change and achieve sustainable development goals.