Many cities throughout the U.S. are making strides to incorporate sustainable trends into their government and business practices. As more companies join this movement, employment opportunities in environmental and sustainability management will likely continue to grow.
For example, more than 100 homeowners, businesses and other organizations within 60 miles of Pendleton, Oregon have signed up for free solar site assessments through Solarize Pendleton, a city-sponsored effort to make the area more eco-friendly. Those who are selected for the assessments and would like to switch to solar energy will be able to receive the installation at an 80 percent discount.
Residents who want to switch to renewable energy but can't afford the construction may also be eligible for one of 50 interest-free loans being offered.
Experts are predicting this program will lower energy bills for residents by nearly one-third and could also prevent cost increases.
By 2018, environmental and sustainability management professionals will see a 31 percent increase in employment, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports. In May 2008, that the annual average salaries of these professionals were $74,020 per year, according to the BLS.
