Sustainability Systems Pathway
Promote environmental responsibility to reduce ecological impact, enhance renewable energy sources, and foster sustainable practices.
Focus Areas
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Renewable Energy: This area involves the development and implementation of energy sources such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal power to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and minimize environmental impact.
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Sustainable Agriculture: Professionals in this field work on practices that promote environmentally friendly farming techniques, improve soil health, and reduce the carbon footprint of food production while ensuring food security.
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Waste Management and Recycling: This area focuses on reducing waste through recycling, composting, and sustainable disposal methods, as well as designing systems to minimize waste generation and promote circular economy practices.
Careers in sustainability systems are crucial for developing innovative solutions to environmental challenges, promoting resource conservation, and fostering a balanced relationship between human activities and the planet's ecosystems for a sustainable future.
Education Requirements
Education and training requirements for careers in the Sustainable Systems Pathway will range from on-the-job training all the way to a doctorate degree. Visit the websites of colleges or universities you are interested in to see what programs they offer in the area of sustainability.
How to Get Started
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Meet the pros: Find individuals who currently work in sustainability systems. Ask them questions about their jobs and what they see as pros and cons.
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Look to the future: Learn about all the factors that contribute to the environmental impact of agriculture. Discover areas where new solutions need to be found.
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Take a related class: See if your school has a related class you can take to learn more.
Example Jobs
Wind Turbine Technician
A wind turbine technician installs, inspects, and repairs wind turbines, ensuring they operate efficiently to generate renewable energy. They perform routine maintenance, troubleshoot mechanical and electrical issues, and often work at heights to maintain turbines in various weather conditions.
Could you play a role in fine-tuning renewable energy to make our future more sustainable?
Air Quality Specialist
Meet Dr. Frank Mitloehner, an accomplished agricultural scientist and professor specializing in animal science and environmental sustainability, particularly in the area of livestock greenhouse gas emissions. He is known for his research on the impact of livestock production on the environment and his efforts to communicate science-based solutions for sustainable agriculture to policymakers, farmers, and the public.
How can Dr. Mitloehner and other professionals in similar industries contribute to a more sustainable future?
Nutrient/Waste Management Specialist
Meet Kraig Westerbrook. His job with Smithfield Foods is to make sure hog farms have effective manure management systems. Hog manure in the right place and quantity restores soil nutrients. Manure in the wrong place or quantity pollutes water sources.
How can careers such as Kraig Westerbrook's make the difference between environmental sustainability and failure?