Green graduates optimistic about the future

16th July 2012

The future is looking bright for Green Jobs, according to a new survey charting the views of environmental graduates.

More than 500 people responded to the survey, which reviewed how green graduates feel about their current role, the jobs market in general and the support available to them. Around 80 per cent of the graduates believe the number of Green jobs will continue to rise in the future, despite the current economic downturn.

Head of Change Partnerships at CHANGE AGENTS UK, Karl McGrory, said: "It is refreshing that even despite all the bad economic news, graduates are still optimistic about the green jobs market."

The results also contain a warning for government and businesses because many Green graduates admit feeling frustrated about opportunities in sustainable roles. With almost half having a Master’s degree, nearly two-thirds are dissatisfied in their current role. Many feel under-employed, while also experiencing widespread structural unemployment. Despite this, almost three-quarters feel they are still making a contribution towards sustainability. The survey reveals that working for a sustainable future is more important to graduates than even financial reward and job security. Indeed, 87 per cent said that a job that aligns with their ethics and works towards sustainability is worth more than a higher salary.

The survey was commissioned by CHANGE AGENTS UK, an international sustainability charity helping graduates work and learn for a sustainable future.

Karl McGrory, continued: "The survey is also great news for employers as our survey reveals that Green graduates are better qualified than the average graduate with trends showing around half of Green graduates holding Master’s degrees or higher. This results in a highly-skilled and motivated talent pool for organisations looking to develop sustainability practices, products and services." 

“We hope this survey will help employers in all sectors to think about the role of sustainability in their organisations and recognise the calibre of graduates they can attract to these vital roles.”

CHANGE AGENTS UK works with a range of private and public sector organisations to develop opportunities for Green graduates, who provide vital experience in a supported environment. This survey demonstrates the high level of skills, commitment and other benefits our graduates bring to these organisations.