Caroline Carlin on a green role that has evolved naturally

My operational role at Saints naturally evolved over time as I became increasingly involved and interested in tackling environmental issues at the club, initially with single-use plastics and waste management and then other projects like energy saving and tree planting. Once we had launched our sustainability strategy, The Halo Effect, in January 2021 it became very clear that the work to drive change and embed sustainability within the club was becoming a real focus and I’ve not looked back since!

I work in sustainability because I want to make a difference in a role that has a real sense of purpose. It’s incredibly rewarding seeing how far we’ve come in a short period, knowing that long-term positive change is happening all the time. The best thing about my role is working with others around the club and in our community with initiatives like Home Grown tree planting, beach cleans and environmental awareness campaigns like the Greener Game.

I see a future where green jobs are an essential part of every organisation’s people strategy but also where employees will be climate literate, having been empowered through provision of education and resources to be part of the efforts to reduce environmental impacts and create opportunities for innovation.

If someone were starting out and looking for a sustainability job, I’d advise them to join various networks in their area, look at what the local council is doing and the commitments/pledges that have been made. I’d also say, take part in some training / upskilling to learn more about environmental sustainability.  One of the first courses I did was the IEMA Foundation Certificate, for example. Read up about the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and explore potential roles that align with those that you find most interesting, or you feel most passionate about.