Environmental studies career opportunities have grown in popularity as climate change and population explosion have become increasingly important issues around the world. Non-profit organizations, government agencies, and even construction and excavation companies may hire job candidates with relevant education. Environmental studies careers frequently focus on determining the environmental impact of various human behaviors and industries, which means that a job candidate will have the opportunity to help the environment and develop new ways for humans to interact safely and appropriately with that environment.
Renewable energy is a relatively new industry that focuses on developing new technology for producing usable energy without using nonrenewable resources like fossil fuels. As the demand for alternative energy sources grows, this burgeoning industry offers numerous environmental studies career opportunities. Companies that develop renewable energy, such as solar energy companies, wind energy companies, and even oil and gas companies looking to expand their methods and techniques, may offer environmental studies career opportunities that are almost entirely focused on developing renewable energy.
Existing energy industry clients may also offer environmental studies job opportunities, as regional laws and regulations may prevent such companies from drilling or excavating without first conducting an environmental study. A job candidate may be hired by a government agency to conduct the study, or he or she may work for such a company. The employee who conducted the study will be responsible for writing a report about the findings once the study is completed. These findings may determine whether or not a project can proceed; the environmental employee may make recommendations for steps that must be taken before any other work can be completed.
Environmental education is arguably one of the most important environmental studies career options. With a changing world constantly at risk of environmental changes, educating the public about important issues is a critical first step toward achieving real, lasting positive changes in society. Teaching positions at various levels of schools, as well as lecturing positions at various colleges, universities, and private institutions, are almost always available.
The National Park Service (NPS) and other organizations may hire environmental scientists to conduct research on the impact of structures, roads, and human interaction on various ecosystems across the national park system. The NPS essentially serves as a steward for protected wildlife areas, and studies are required on a regular basis to ensure their safety and protection.