Career opportunities in sustainability-related fields

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT:The impact of the econom ic turndown in 2008, brought sustainability issues to the forefront of public debate as the realities of climate change, and society's response to it, gain higher visibility. As a result, t he green economy is gaining global traction as it is evident i n South African policy frameworks and investment. In this new environment, human or social capital is fast becoming the foundation of sustainable businesses. The pursuit of green jobs is seen as a key economic driver in the 21st century, creating a green pathway out of poverty. Shifting the economy from business as usual to a low carbon, resource efficient, resilient and inclusive sustainable economy will involve large scale investment in new technologies, equipment, buildings, and infrastructure, research and development and skills training and could thus be a major stimulus for much-needed employment (UNEP, 2008:3).The focus of this to study is to investigate, career opportunities for graduates of the programme in Sustainable Development, offered by the School of Public Leadership (SPL) at Stellenbosch University. The question is asked if future careers in sustainability-related fields are secured for these graduates. The problem statement was formulated to determine possible challenges that graduates might face from advancing in their careers. I have aimed to address this problem by exploring the prospects for employment in various sustainability-related fields. The re search objectives are to: a) attain clarity regarding graduates` understanding and awareness of available careers in sustainability-related fields; b) to investigate attempts, tools and processes through which graduates could develop careers in the sustainability-related fields; and c) To confirm the graduates` employment status, pre-and post-graduation. My study will aim to demonstrate that more research needs to be conducted related to career guidance to prepare a new workforce, with skills and career knowledge to enter career opportunities in green economy.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University