Generation Z (Gen Z), born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, faces significant challenges in the midst of a climate crisis and economic instability. In Indonesia, approximately 9.9 million out of the 44.47 million Gen Z population aged 15-24 are experiencing unemployment or are classified as NEET (Not in Employment, Education, or Training). This situation is exacerbated by climate change, which further narrows job opportunities in certain sectors.

However, amidst this crisis, hope emerges through green jobs—jobs that support environmental sustainability and contribute to the preservation of the planet. Gen Z needs to understand that green jobs can be a solution to unemployment while also playing a crucial role in combating the climate crisis.

How Does the Climate Crisis Cause Gen Z Unemployment?

The climate crisis significantly impacts unemployment rates, particularly among young people like Gen Z. Several economic sectors that are vulnerable to climate change, such as agriculture, tourism, and fisheries, have seen decreased productivity due to the increasing frequency of natural disasters. For example, rising global temperatures disrupt crop growth patterns, leading to crop failures and reduced jobs in the agricultural sector.

Natural disasters such as floods and wildfires also damage infrastructure and economic resources, directly reducing employment opportunities in various regions. Environmental uncertainty due to the climate crisis makes investments in certain sectors highly risky, hindering economic growth and the creation of new jobs, especially for those just entering the job market.

Gen Z’s Financial Anxiety

In addition to facing unemployment, Gen Z in Indonesia is also grappling with concerns about their financial future. The rising cost of living, including housing prices, transportation, and daily necessities, adds to the anxiety of this generation. According to a World Bank report, the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the future income prospects for young people, with annual income losses estimated between US$408 to US$578 due to learning losses and economic impacts.

Green Jobs as a Solution for Gen Z Unemployment

Green jobs offer a way out of the dilemma of unemployment and economic uncertainty faced by Gen Z. What are green jobs? They are various types of jobs that support environmental sustainability, ranging from renewable energy technology to nature conservation. With increasing awareness of the importance of sustainability, career opportunities in this sector continue to grow.

Promising Green Job Opportunities for Gen Z:

1. Sustainability Consultant: You don’t have to be an engineer to pursue a career in sustainability. Sustainability consultants help companies reduce their carbon footprint and implement environmentally friendly business practices. If you have project management skills and business acumen, this could be a fitting career.

2. Environmental Scientist: The demand for environmental science specialists is projected to grow by 8% this decade. They play a crucial role in monitoring and analyzing the environmental impact of human activities and formulating solutions to reduce environmental damage.

3. Green Creative Worker: Designers, writers, and artists focusing on environmental issues also play an important role in educating and inspiring society to care more about the environment. Content supporting sustainability can be part of the long-term solution to the climate crisis.

Green Job Opportunities According to the World Economic Forum

According to a recent report from the World Economic Forum, the green industry is projected to become one of the fastest-growing sectors globally. Increased investment in green technology and sustainable practices is driving the creation of more jobs. This presents a significant opportunity for Gen Z in Indonesia to take advantage of the growing job market in this field.

Why Should Gen Z Seize These Opportunities?

Gen Z is not only confronted with the challenges of the climate crisis, but they also have a responsibility to contribute to the global efforts to fight climate change. Green jobs provide opportunities that are not only economically beneficial but also help create a more sustainable future for generations to come.

With the right skills and an awareness of the importance of environmental conservation, Gen Z can tap into opportunities in the green job sector as a way to combat unemployment while playing a role in protecting the planet.

Sumber:

1. Badan Pusat Statistik Indonesia (BPS)
2. World Bank
3. Indonesia Gen Z Report 2022: Understanding and Uncovering the Behaviour, Challenges, and Opportunities
4. World Economic Forum

Contributor:

Meiardhy Mujianto