The Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012) is no longer satisfied with a simple salary: it wants a job that makes a difference. Grown up amid environmental crisis and climate change, this generation is redefining the concept of career. Green jobs, that is sustainable professions, are at the center of this transformation.
What are green jobs?
Green jobs are all those professions that contribute to preserving or restoring environmental quality. They do not concern only renewable energy, but also sectors such as:
- Sustainable agriculture: agricultural practices that respect the environment.
- Circular economy: reduction, reuse and recycling of materials.
- Sustainable finance: investments that promote sustainability.
- Green technologies: innovations that reduce environmental impact.
A gap to be bridged
The research conducted by Unicef for Generation Unlimited highlights significant data:
- 94% of the young people interviewed have been directly exposed to the effects of climate change, especially through temperature variations, rainfall and seasons.
- 95% of young people state they are worried about the impacts of climate change.
- 1 out of 4 young people considers their job a means to tackle climate change and considers it the main factor in career choices.
- only 29% of young people believe that their educational path has fully prepared them to face work challenges related to climate change.
The study highlights a strong interest in green jobs, but also a clear gap between expectations and preparation.
The most in-demand green professions
According to Unioncamere, the 10 most requested green jobs are:
- Environmental engineer
- Solves problems related to waste, construction and public services with innovative and sustainable solutions.
- Green mechatronics technician
- Combines electronics and computer science to reduce engine emissions.
- Building promoter of sustainable materials
- Supports companies in the use of innovative and green materials in construction.
- Bioinformatician
- Manages biological data using computer tools, in pharmaceuticals, chemistry or r&d.
- Sustainable chef
- Chef who prioritizes organic, local and low-impact raw materials, reducing waste.
- Agricultural programmer of the short supply chain
- Combines tradition and innovation for local and seasonal low-impact production.
- Environmental educator
- Promotes environmental responsibility in schools, companies and public contexts.
- Environmental lawyer
- Legal expert who supports companies and public administration in environmental and energy matters.
- Environmental IT specialist
- Integrates computer skills with green knowledge to develop sustainable solutions.
- Green accounting specialist
- Manages corporate accounting, taxation and incentives with a sustainable approach.
Why Gen Z chooses green jobs
Young people today seek not only salary and security, but also coherence between personal values and work. Among the main reasons:
- Concrete impact on the planet – contributing to reducing emissions, promoting clean energy and sustainable supply chains.
- Ethics and purpose – working for companies and sectors that share environmental and social principles.
- Innovation – participating in cutting-edge and smart technological projects.
- Future stability – green sectors growing thanks to the European Green Deal and the PNRR.
In other words, for Gen Z work wants to become a tool to change and save the world.
Green jobs are not just a trend, but a necessity to build a sustainable future. Gen z has the opportunity to be the protagonist of this transformation, acquiring the necessary skills and directing their career towards professions that make a difference for the planet.
Discover more content dedicated to ecological transition on the Museum of Saving’s blog. Take part in our events, workshops and training programs designed to support young people, families and schools in building solid foundations for their future. Discover the downloadable content on the website www.museodelrisparmio.it
22 October 2025