Surging Demand for Sustainability Jobs and Skills in 2024, LinkedIn Reports
Despite the re-election of President Donald Trump, demand for sustainability-focused jobs, skills, and talent continues to rise sharply across the U.S. and globally, according to LinkedIn's latest "Global Green Skills Report."
Efrem Bycer, LinkedIn's head of sustainability and workforce policy partnerships, notes that climate change is reshaping the job market. "An election doesn’t control the weather," he says.
Key findings from the report include:
- Green Talent Gap: Demand for green talent is outpacing supply. By 2030, one in five green jobs may lack skilled candidates, potentially affecting half of green jobs by 2050.
- Hiring Boom: In the U.S., green talent hiring is up 80% compared to overall hiring.
- Gen-Z Interest: 61% of Gen-Z workers aim to enter the green workforce within five years but face barriers like a perceived lack of opportunities.
Addressing the Green Skills Gap
Bycer suggests employers adopt skills-based hiring, considering skills gained from diverse experiences. He encourages Gen-Z workers to explore roles outside traditional 'green' jobs, such as supply chain and procurement, which are crucial for decarbonizing heavy-emission sectors.
Navigating Political Uncertainty
Despite Trump's promises to boost oil and gas production and withdraw from the Paris Agreement, Bycer believes the renewable energy transition will persist due to global economic opportunities. U.S. companies operating internationally will benefit from participating in the growing clean economy.
Expert Advice for Aspiring Green Workers
Lisa Jackson, Apple's VP of environment, policy, and social initiatives, advises young workers to focus on acquiring scientific skills and seeking workplace mentorship. She emphasizes that sustainability roles aren't limited to 'environmental' titles.
Growing Sectors for Green Jobs
LinkedIn highlights sectors like utilities, construction, and manufacturing as having a high demand for green skills. Sustainable procurement, for instance, is the fastest-growing green skill globally.
Despite political uncertainty, the report underscores the growing demand and opportunities in the green jobs market, driven by climate change and global economic trends.