Given recent news it seems that even being employed is destined to be a major accomplishment for the upcoming year!  With “going green” finally becoming recognized as not only as “being cool”, but as a necessity for the planet, it stands to reason that seeking a career in a green profession is likely to be a wise decision for your future. In that spirit, we have created a list of top “green jobs” for 2009, and beyond.

Eco-Tourism: Eco-tourism is growing at three times the rate of the overall tourism industry, which is currently the largest business sector in the world economy. Travel employees considered to be “green” generally work for private companies, government, public institutions and nonprofit organizations.

Environmental Law: Whether your passion is the protect the environment through reduction of pollution, cleaner drinker water, or saving endangered species, this profession will certainly provide the venue to do so while earning a good living.

Organic Farming: The U.S. Department of Agriculture reports that land used for farming organic crops increased from 48,000 acres in 1997 to 122,000 acres in 2005. Clearly, farmers are recognizing the demand for organic foods is on the rise, not to mention they command greater prices and profits for farmers.

Environmental Engineer: Environmental engineers are tasked with finding ways to reduce catastrophic issues such as global warming, automobile emissions, ozone depletion and acid rain. The field of environmental engineering is projected to grow 25 percent over course of the next seven years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Hydrologist: This profession involves the management of wastewater treatment, sewer systems and watersheds. With the expectation of a continuing shortage of fresh, clean drinking water, individuals who specialize in this career path should expect to be in demand for years to come.

Energy Efficiency Builders: The National Association of Home Builders reported an increase in demand for green building professionals. As energy-efficient building practices become the norm, it is expected that green builders will have a competitive advantage over traditional builders.

Solar Power Installer:  It is estimated there are currently over 3,400 companies in the solar energy sector, employing close to 35,000 workers. The Solar Energy Industries Association predicts an increase to over 110,000 jobs by 2016, and possibly more contingent on the status of solar tax credit programs.

Wind Turbine Fabricator: Wind is considered to be the leading and fastest-growing source of alternative energy, employing  over 300,000 individuals worldwide. According to the American Wind Energy Association, the industry currently employs approximately 50,000 Americans.

Recycling/Garbage Consultant: Figuring out how to recycle and reuse the billions of tons of waste generated by the world’s population is a critical issue for the future. Among the challenges, how to use this waste to provide useful sources of energy, reusable raw materials and precious metals.

Forestry Consultant: Deforestation, which causes around a quarter of all global warming, is also likely to be a leading source of carbon credits worth tens of billions of dollars. Foresters are involved in conservation and development of projects designed to minimize deforestation, along with education of local people to optimize agricultural methods.

Of course, most of these jobs do require a considerable amount of training and education. If you are at a point in your life where you are preparing to enter college or considering a career change, one of these hot green careers may be perfect for you– and our planet.

Cindy Hydrogen Economy environmental jobs, going green, Green jobs, green professions, help the planet, sustainable jobs