A New Look at Climate Jobs

Redefining Climate Jobs: A Perspective for All Professionals

About Topic:

As a professional, you might be searching high and low for that perfect job in climate tech. You've been through every listing on platforms like Climatebase and Climate Tech List, but the right fit seems elusive. What if the impactful climate experience you seek lies outside the realm of traditional VC-backed startups?

Problem:

The common perception is that to make a tangible difference in combating climate change, one must work for a company whose core business is directly related to climate. This perspective often leads job seekers, from entry-level to experienced professionals, to overlook opportunities in industries that, though not traditionally associated with climate tech, can significantly influence climate outcomes.

Solution:

It's time we broaden our understanding of what a "climate job" entails. Our battle against climate change demands collective participation from all sectors of society, including those not explicitly tagged as 'climate companies.'

Impact:

Industries like commercial real estate, logistics, and waste management play crucial roles in the industrial transition towards a more sustainable future. For instance, the electrification movement requires efficient buildings, necessitating commercial and industrial management. Similarly, effective waste management contributes significantly to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Moreover, corporations hold substantial power, particularly in the US. Having climate-motivated individuals within these organizations can leverage their positions to drive internal change and encourage companies to make a greater climate impact.

Examples:

Take the commercial real estate industry, for instance. While it might not seem directly linked to climate change, real estate firms can influence the energy efficiency of the buildings they manage, thereby reducing their carbon footprint.

Similarly, the logistics industry can optimize supply chain operations to minimize waste and carbon emissions. While the core business of these industries may not be climate-oriented, their operations can significantly impact the environment.

One-Minute Call to Action:

So, if you're a professional seeking a climate job, think beyond the conventional. Don't confine yourself to climate startups. Look for opportunities where your unique skills and passion can drive impactful change, even if the core business doesn't revolve around climate. Remember, every job can be a climate job with the right mindset. Your experience in these influential industries can later be applied to climate startup jobs if you choose to follow that path. Let's redefine what it means to have a climate job and shape the future we want.