Sustainability specialists in the construction sector examine a project’s carbon footprint and provide suggestions on how to lower its environmental effect. They assist firms to save money while speeding up progress and keeping an eye on people and ecosystems while still following environmental laws.
How to become a sustainability specialist
There are several methods to enter the field of environmental sustainability. A university course, an apprenticeship, or a direct application for employment may all help you achieve your goal.
You should research these pathways to become a sustainability specialist to see which one is right for you. Although certain criteria are necessary for some of these options, many employers are more concerned with employees who are passionate, eager to learn, and able to follow instructions.
University
You may acquire an undergraduate degree in surveying, engineering, or construction to become a sustainability expert. For a higher-level position, you can finish a postgraduate degree in a related discipline or achieve chartered status. Some organizations may provide postgraduate education.
You’ll need:
- A minimum of 2 A levels (or equivalent), or 4-5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) is required.
- An undergraduate degree in a relevant field (postgraduate degree)
- Equivalent entrance requirements were explained.
- Determine if you need to get a degree.
- Advice on how to get funding
Apprenticeship
To become a sustainability specialist, you may complete an apprenticeship. The construction business is a fantastic entry point into the market.
Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you will be completely employed by your firm and required to work at least 30 hours a week. You’ll spend some of your time learning on the job, while other time will be spent in school or training.
Work
If you know modelling software or relevant sustainability certifications, you may apply to a construction firm immediately to gain on-site work as a sustainability expert. You may begin as an assistant and advance as your skills develop.
Skills
Here are some additional skills that people considering a career as a sustainability specialist might want to consider:
- Excellent communication skills are a must.
- Knowledge of construction projects
- Good interpersonal communication skills
- Environmental regulation is a must.
- Experience working in a project management role
- The ability to solve problems is one of the most important skills you can develop.
What does a sustainability specialist do?
As a sustainability specialist, like SRE., you’ll figure out how to make construction projects more sustainable. Your evaluation might include an analysis of materials utilized on a project, pollutants created the impact of a project on local communities and ecosystems, the energy use of the completed product, and environmental compliance. You could be in charge of building developments, oil and gas platforms or infrastructure on land or at sea, as well as transportation or industrial facilities.
The responsibilities of a sustainability specialist might include the following:
- Working with engineers and designers to develop sustainability initiatives
- Assessing the prospects of attaining Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology (BREEAM) and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) ratings
- Identifying potential problems and highlighting ways to minimize them is a crucial part of assessing a project’s sustainability.
- Preparing sustainability assessment reports
- Low-carbon and zero-carbon technology are advised by us.
- Working on a construction site, as well as in an office.
If you’re looking to hire an environmental consultant, we highly recommend SRE.
About The Author
