Yasmin Henrique, from the NINJA Collaborative Coverage at COP30

While COP30 brings together world leaders to discuss solutions to address the climate crisis, a silent phenomenon has been transforming the global job market: the expansion of green jobs. Climate change, deforestation, scarcity of natural resources, and growing awareness of sustainability have created an increasing demand for professionals capable of reconciling economic development with environmental conservation. 

According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), green jobs are those that contribute to protecting or restoring the environment while promoting decent work and economic growth. Contrary to what many imagine, these careers are not limited to NGOs or forest-related fields. They encompass sectors such as industry, construction, education, agribusiness, logistics, public administration, and technology. 

The job market reflects this trend. According to Linkedin’s 2024 Global Green Skills Report, the share of sustainability-related job postings rose from 7.3% in 2023 to 7.7% in 2024, and between 2015 and 2022 there was a 38.5% increase in the presence of green talent. Professionals in this segment have a hiring rate 54.6% higher than the average, highlighting the sector’s attractiveness.

Research from the World Economic Forum indicates that 47% of companies plan to intensify efforts to reduce carbon emissions, while 41% expect significant organizational changes driven by sustainability.

Meanwhile, a study by Korn Ferry reveals that 60% of millennials feel inspired by companies with environmental policies, and 54% would consider changing careers to work in green fields, showing how sustainability has become a strategic factor in attracting and retaining talent.

Motivations and benefits 

The growth of green professions is driven by a variety of factors. Environmental requirements, such as national legislation, international agreements, and global regulations, puts pressure on companies to adopt sustainable practices.

The circular economy and the carbon market also requires professionals working in waste management, renewable energy, reforestation, and environmental compensation. 

In addition, companies that follow ESG standards gain competitiveness and attract credit, while conscious consumers value organizations committed to the environment.

Startups and technology companies further increase the need for specialists in sustainable solutions.

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) highlights that green jobs bring benefits such as increased efficiency in the use of energy and raw materials, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, minimization of waste and pollution, protection of ecosystems, and contribution to climate change adaptation.

Green training and jobs by sector 

There is no single profile for working in green careers, as each role requires specialization in its corresponding sector. To prepare, it is recommended to study areas such as: 

  • Agriculture
  • Sustainable Architecture 
  • Environmental Engineering 
  • Environmental Sciences
  • Renewable Energy 
  • Botany and Forestry 
  • Marine Biology
  • Environmental Law
  • Horticulture 
  • Zoology 

In addition to academic training, it is essential to develop complementary skills, such as:

  • Knowledge of environmental legislation
  • Mastery of sustainable technologies 
  • Understanding of production chains 
  • Ability to develop innovative projects 

Career choices should align personal values with the mission of generating positive impact, considering the sector of interest — whether fieldwork, planning, or technology — and the desired type of work, practical or strategic. Examples of green jobs by sector:

  • Renewable energy: Solar energy engineer, wind energy engineer, environmental geophysicist, mechanical engineer specialized in renewables. 
  • Environmental protection: Environmental scientist, environmental lawyer, zoologist, conservation scientist.
  • Recycling and waste management: Waste collector, recycling coordinator, hazardous materials worker.
  • Sustainable transportation: Transportation manager, transportation engineer, transportation planner.
  • Technology: Environmental software engineer, green data analyst, green IT specialist, web designer for sustainable solutions. 
  • Government and regulatory administration: Environmental arbiter or mediator, energy auditor, urban planner, regulatory specialist.
  • Business and administration: ESG consultant, environmental manager, power plant operator, sustainable construction inspector.
  • Environmental education and communication: Environmental educator, sustainability communication specialist, green skills training instructor.

Transition and challenges

The transition to a sustainable economy is urgent but complex, bringing both opportunities and significant challenges. The green Skills Outlook study, conducted by Iberdrola in partnership with The Economist Impact, indicates that the rapid transformation depends on the availability of professionals trained in green competencies — a demand that is still not being met.

According to the research, the responsibility for leading this shift falls primarily on the private sector, which must align innovation and sustainability strategies with talent management.

At the time, the change in the economic model directly affects traditional jobs. According to the ILO , by 2030, 6 million jobs may be lost in sectors such as oil, coal, and mining, highlighting the need for just transition policies and social protection mechanisms.