29.2 Key Areas in Environmental Sustainability 

Resource Management 

Resource management involves managing natural resources such as water and minerals in a sustainable way. Careers in this area can include water conservation specialists who work on projects to save water in communities and industries, and waste management professionals who develop systems to reduce, reuse, and recycle waste. Effective resource management ensures that we use resources efficiently and responsibly, helping to preserve them for future generations. For example, The Coca-Cola Company has implemented water stewardship programs to reduce water usage and improve water efficiency in its production processes.

Plastic Pollution & the Great Lakes

Plastic pollution is one of the fastest-growing environmental challenges. Single-use plastics and microplastics often end up in rivers and lakes, where they break down slowly and harm wildlife. The Great Lakes, which provide drinking water for millions of people, are especially affected. Studies have found high concentrations of microplastics in these waters, showing how everyday waste can ripple through ecosystems and into human communities.

The documentary Ripples of Plastic highlights this issue by focusing on the Great Lakes region. The film shows how plastic waste moves through waterways, how it impacts fish and other wildlife, and how microplastics enter the food chain. It calls attention to the urgent need for better prevention, waste management, and public awareness.

Careers in sustainability, waste management, and environmental education all play a role in tackling this problem and protecting the health of both people and ecosystems.

Renewable Energy Sectors

Renewable energy is energy sourced from natural processes that are continuously replenished, such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides, and geothermal heat. It is a key component of environmental sustainability. Careers in this field include roles in solar and wind energy sectors. For example, solar panel technicians install and maintain solar panels, while wind turbine engineers design and oversee the construction of wind farms. These jobs not only help reduce reliance on fossil fuels but also contribute to lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Tesla is a notable company in this field, known for its advancements in solar energy and battery storage technologies.

Sustainable Product Design and Manufacturing

Designing and producing eco-friendly products is crucial for sustainability. This involves using materials that are renewable or recyclable, and manufacturing processes that minimize waste and pollution. For example, creating biodegradable packaging materials or developing energy-efficient appliances are ways companies can contribute to sustainability. Patagonia is a leading example, using recycled materials in its products and ensuring fair labor practices throughout its supply chain.

The Circular Economy

The circular economy is a model where products are designed to be reused, repaired, or recycled, rather than being disposed of after use. This approach reduces waste and conserves resources. In manufacturing, this means designing products that can be easily taken apart and repurposed, or using materials that can be continuously recycled without losing quality.

Careers in this area might include product designers, materials scientists, and sustainability consultants who help companies implement circular economy principles. IKEA has committed to becoming a fully circular business by 2030, focusing on sustainable product design and resource efficiency.

Green Business Practices

Businesses can adopt various practices to minimize their environmental footprint. Energy efficiency is one such practice, where companies reduce energy consumption through better building designs, energy-efficient appliances, and renewable energy sources. Sustainable sourcing involves choosing suppliers and materials that have lower environmental impacts, such as organic or fair-trade products.

Reducing a company’s carbon footprint involves cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions. This can be achieved through measures like improving energy efficiency, switching to renewable energy, and offsetting emissions by investing in environmental projects. Companies often track and report their carbon footprint as part of their sustainability efforts, and roles in this area include sustainability managers, environmental analysts, and compliance officers.

Net zero means that the amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere is balanced by the amount removed. Companies reach net zero by cutting emissions through efficiency and renewable energy, then offsetting or removing what cannot be eliminated. Many businesses set net zero targets to guide their long-term environmental strategies. For example, Unilever has pledged to achieve net zero across its operations and supply chain by 2039.

By focusing on these key areas, businesses can significantly contribute to environmental sustainability. Careers in these fields not only help protect the environment but also drive innovation and efficiency within companies.