Sustainability: Is It Refining Into a Discipline?

In our sustainability consulting experience, businesses and individuals have typically had a difficult time relating to the enormity of sustainability and how it specifically relates to them. To add to the discussion, there is now concern that the term ‘sustainability’ itself might be losing effectiveness as a term. Despite these concerns, eco awareness continues to grow at an exponential rate. Some argue this is adding to the misconceptions while others believe it is providing greater understanding and clarity.

With this clarity, the general public has become aware that there is more to sustainability than just ‘green’, and they are pursuing sustainability in a much broader sense. This is becoming increasingly evident in the business world, as businesses and individuals set new expectations for employment.

‘What Does a Green Employee Look Like’ describes what some businesses are seeking from a new generation of employees. Companies along with ‘green’ job seekers are now setting expectations and defining the characteristics of a sustainability discipline.

A recent Canadian labor market study examines some of the developing trends in sustainability. The report concludes that sustainability will be embedded in every work discipline in the future, citing climate change and business sustainability as key drivers. Specific to education and job creation, the study predicts:

•    Sustainability will become a set of principles that become customized in different fields of study.

•    There will be a major trend towards having technical sustainability knowledge in key areas.

•    Employees will be expected to have a general knowledge of sustainability at a strategic level.

•    Employers will be looking for managers who understand what sustainability means in all aspects of society.

•    There will be a demand for employees with a global perspective on sustainability, whether in business, engineering, accounting, management or construction.

With a broadening understanding and a desire to extend a sustainable lifestyle to the workplace, there are a growing number of employment and education options available. As a sustainability consultant, I encourage anyone interested in sustainability to make a powerful choice: follow what inspires you and choose employment opportunities that align with your values.