International Youth Day: Pioneering Green Skills for a Greener India Inc.

In recent times, the urgency of the climate crisis has become more apparent, with extreme weather events and increasing global warming demanding immediate action. This wake-up call has prompted industries and organizations to take on their environmental responsibilities. What’s remarkable is that professionals are actively acquiring skills that not only integrate sustainability into their work, but also contribute directly to the well-being of our planet.

As we celebrate International Youth Day, the theme “Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World” takes center stage. India has pledged to reduce the emissions intensity of its GDP by 45% by 2030 and achieve a cumulative installed capacity of non-fossil fuel-based energy resources of about 50% by 2030. With the number of green talent professionals in India growing by 12% year-over-year on LinkedIn, it’s evident that sustainability is no longer just a buzzword; it’s a powerful catalyst for change. In the midst of this buzz, the top 3 green skills in India—Carbon Footprinting, Environmental Law, and Sustainability Consulting—are opening doors that exceed our expectations.

“Young professionals are now prioritizing purpose-driven careers and seeking out companies that align with their values. Industries are also taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint, creating more job opportunities in sustainability. LinkedIn recently introduced a job filter that allows professionals to find jobs that match their values, and sustainability is one of the options. LinkedIn data shows that the concentration of ‘green talent’ is growing, driven by the rise of the electric vehicle industry. Investing in green skills can lead to sustainable careers,” says Nirajita Banerjee, Senior Managing Editor at LinkedIn India.

Here are Banerjee’s tips on how professionals can pursue a career in sustainability:

1. Showcase your green skills
   Add your green skills to your LinkedIn profile under the “Licenses and Certificates” section to demonstrate your sustainability credentials to recruiters. The sustainability industry is relatively new, so they are seeking individuals with transferable skills, so be sure to highlight them. If you have been involved in projects that contribute to sustainability, showcase the skills you have gained.
2. Reskill on green skills
   Members with green skills have demonstrated greater resilience to economic downturns compared to the rest of the workforce. Increasing your proficiency in green skills is an excellent starting point. Consider taking short courses on LinkedIn Learning or enrolling in higher education programs focused on sustainability. In the workplace, take advantage of your organization’s learning curriculum to enhance your knowledge of green skills and elevate your expertise in AI and Machine Learning for data-driven solutions that promote a planet-friendly career.
3. Stay informed and prepared
   Stay updated on the latest developments in the green industry to ensure you are ready for opportunities. Follow green ambassadors and thought leaders on LinkedIn to stay informed about industry trends and the direction of the green economy. LinkedIn also publishes a Top Voices Green list that you can follow to stay abreast of all things related to sustainability in the workplace.
4. Connect with green companies
   Follow companies on LinkedIn that prioritize sustainability to learn about available job opportunities and gain insights into their company culture. Additionally, check if you have any connections who work at those organizations, as they can provide referrals. On LinkedIn, applicants are four times more likely to get hired through their network.