SE Valley Times

A recent Forbes report on green jobs aligns with Arizona State University's (ASU) long-standing emphasis on sustainability's role in the future economy. The report predicts that by 2030, there will be 100 million sustainability-oriented jobs worldwide, requiring specialized skills and knowledge.

Data from ASU’s College of Global Futures indicates that 90% of sustainability graduates with a bachelor’s degree find employment in their field or pursue further studies. This rate increases to 95% for those with master’s degrees. Alumni have launched careers at organizations such as ICF International, Air Force Cyberworks, VOX Global, and the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality.

Christopher Boone, a professor at ASU’s School of Sustainability and former dean of the College of Global Futures, commented on these findings: “It’s pretty remarkable.” Boone is currently working with the Sustainable Cities Network on a course focused on municipal-level sustainability practice.

Boone discussed changes over two decades: "Early graduates from (the sustainability) program were actually quite successful in finding jobs in their field... Over the last couple of decades, sustainability has become increasingly professionalized."

Sustainability roles span private, public, nonprofit sectors, and academia. According to alumni surveys, nearly half work in the private sector. Salaries vary based on experience and sector; bachelor's graduates most commonly earn between $40,000-52,000 or above $100,000. Master’s graduates frequently report salaries exceeding $100,000.

The anticipated growth in green jobs is driven by urgent challenges like climate change and economic opportunities presented by sustainability. Boone noted: "Governments and companies need people with sustainability and green-skills training."

At ASU, all students must take a class in sustainability to enhance their education across various fields including finance and engineering. New courses like SOS 100 are part of this initiative.

Looking forward, Boone emphasized collaboration among colleges to address job demands: "Collaborating... nationally and internationally to offer quality sustainability programs will be necessary." He highlighted ASU's focus on lifelong learning as a model for others.