Opportunities in uncertain times

Today’s economy presents significant challenges, but for those of us committed to sustainability, it also offers new opportunities. As energy costs have skyrocketed and financial markets have entered a state of turmoil, calls for change are coming from all directions.

In his inaugural speech, President Barack Obama reiterated his belief that change is needed and that green jobs can help the country emerge from recession. He said, “… we will act not only to create new jobs but to lay a new foundation for growth. We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together.We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age.”

President Obama voiced what many of us already knew: Sustainability is both a societal imperative and an economic stimulus. It cannot be viewed as a concern only for environmentalists or activists, or those with a particular political leaning. In the context of climate change, limited natural resources, global political instability, and other threats to our health and safety, sustainability is a long-term necessity.

President Obama’s words provide additional impetus to develop an educated workforce able to assume  jobs in the New Economy and help produce long-term growth and prosperity. Many jobs will be completely new and require new ways of thinking. They will create opportunities for professionals with the skills and knowledge to embrace innovation and implement good ideas.

Educators have a responsibility to prepare people to take on these new roles successfully. This is our opportunity as well as our challenge.

Education for the New Economy
Colleges and universities throughout the United States offer an array of educational programs related to sustainability. Many were designed for undergraduate and graduate students seeking a degree. But we must also educate adult professionals who want to take advantage of new career opportunities that will help the economy turn around.