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Sustainable development is a concept that has come increasingly to the fore since the accentuation of various environmental and climatic challenges on a global scale. Present in the majority of companies, this is a field that is recruiting more and more, and therefore of interest to a large number of students. In this article, we’ll take you through the important details of sustainability training.
In summary:
To work in sustainable development :
- Train quickly by choosing a short course of 2 to 3 years after the baccalauréat.
- Gain access to a wider range of career opportunities by opting for a long cycle of at least 5 years post-bac.
- Attend a school specializing in the field or an engineering school.
- Join ECE and choose the right MSc program or go on to the engineering cycle by opting for a related major.
What is sustainable development?
Sustainable development is development that is “balanced” and “reasonable” in its response to current evolutionary needs. It takes into account all the parameters that will ensure that future generations have the natural resources they need to meet their own needs.
Sustainable development is therefore based on three essential elements: the economy, society and the environment. Indeed, in today’s world, it’s the economy that measures the degree of development. Society and the environment, on the other hand, are the resources and therefore the elements to be protected and preserved as a legacy for future generations.
Preserving the environment mainly involves conserving biodiversity and natural ecosystems. As far as the company is concerned, the points to consider are cultural, educational and human.
How important is sustainable development in our societies?
With global warming and the environmental problems facing the whole world, international measures have been put in place. They exist in the form of conventions, standards, mechanisms and plans adopted and respected by the world’s societies.
Sustainable development is also an ecological concept promoted both nationally in many countries and internationally. Implementing and enforcing it enables companies not only to demonstrate their ecological values, but also to help save the planet.
What are the main sustainable development professions?
The main sustainable development professions encompass those related to the three main pillars mentioned above. The most popular are the “green” professions, which you can find out more about in the FAQ section of our site:
- renewable energies ;
- waste management and treatment ;
- water purification ;
- the green economy;
- biodiversity conservation ;
- safeguarding natural spaces ;
- restoring natural landscapes and ecosystems.
The position and category you qualify for will depend largely on your training in sustainable development, your years of study and experience, and your skills. You could start out as an agent or technician in a specific field, such as urban cleaning. You can then progress to a management position such as QHSE Manager.
Why study sustainable development?
With the worldwide promotion of sustainable development, this is a sector that is constantly recruiting. In recent years, there have been a number of new professions in this field, all of which are promising for the future.
Sustainable development is taught in all kinds of specific programs. Being an expert in your field can give you access to positions of great responsibility within companies, regardless of their sector of activity.
So working in sustainable development is particularly rewarding. This means helping to protect the environment and ensure a future for generations to come.
What training courses should you choose to work in sustainable development?
Training in sustainable development is available through a wide range of institutions and programs.
Short courses in sustainable development
By choosing to follow a short cycle, you can enter a profession more quickly. Opt for a BTS or a BUT, which generally correspond to 2 or 3 years of higher education after the baccalauréat. You can also choose to do a bachelor’s degree equivalent to a bac + 3.
Long-term courses in sustainable development
If you prefer long cycles that go up to at least bac + 5, the programs are equally numerous. You can train at university or at an engineering school to obtain the title of engineer. You can also choose between a Master’s degree and a Master of Science degree, and go all the way up to a doctorate equivalent to a bac + 8.
Does the ECE offer training in sustainable development?
AtECE, we offer training in sustainable development. In Paris, you can opt for our Energy & Sustainable Development Major engineering program, leading to a 5-year degree and an engineering diploma.
We also offer an MSc Sustainable energy futures program, giving you the opportunity to obtain a diploma at bac + 5 level.