Can’t Land an Environmental Career? Have No Fear! How you can be an environmental leader without working in an environmental-related field.

By Samantha Davies

It became clear during my undergraduate years as an Environmental Studies major that Mother Nature would need all the help she could get. It seemed straightforward – we need a healthy environment for the economy to exist. While the loss of biodiversity is a serious threat to our natural ecosystems, you would think that this means tons of careers and opportunities available within the environmental sector, right? 

When the job hunt began after graduation, I had to switch gears from searching for an environmental-related job and instead jumped on the opportunity that fell on my lap. I started at a financial technology company called XE.com as a Digital Marketer. This was completely new and outside of my realm of expertise. Since then I have learned a tremendous amount of transferable skills. These skills are in demand by the digital-age, which has no signs of slowing down.
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Luckily, XE already encouraged sustainability practices around the office before I started a career there. Tapping into the green energy grid with over 10 years of supporting Bullfrog Power and setting up a local compost service through WasteNot Farms has made me proud to work for a business whose main purpose is not related to the natural environment. That made all the difference to me especially because I did not want my passion and previous education to go to waste.

Hanging with fellow environmental leader Jocelyn from WasteNot Farms.

​Through organizing a litter clean up with my co-workers to introducing a straw-ban within the office (inspired by this hilarious “stop sucking” video by Buzzfeed), I am proud that the people I work with are so receptive to green ideas and initiatives. The best part about being a sustainability leader is that we can make an impact through our actions no matter where we end up in our career.

I recommend that in whatever industry you end up landing a career in, don’t be afraid to be your true, eco-nerdy self. One valuable lesson I have learned over the years is that people generally follow by example. Biodiversity and sustainability go hand-in-hand together– the more diverse an ecosystem the more sustainable and resilient it becomes. Celebrate your diversity within a setting that may not seem supportive at first because by showing your true colours, you will eventually make a positive impact wherever you end up.

Embrace your inner eco-nerd.

If you have questions, feel inspired, or want to simply drop me a note, feel free to reach me at my email. Stay green and humble my friends!

Sam is an Environmental Studies graduate who believes in the power of diversity, believing that good ideas come to life through collaboration and positive energy. She is passionate about changing everyday behaviours that lead to more fulfilling and less wasteful lifestyles. From leading her “Litter Loner” series where she inspires others to pick up litter to becoming an avid digital marketer, Sam continues to make a positive impact wherever she goes! You can find her on Instagram @thrugreeneyes.

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