"The need for such specialists has already increased, but will continue to do so even more over the next two or three years," explained Anari Lilleoja, director of the ministry´s Environmental Education Bureau. "Both state institutions and local governments, as well as private companies, are going to need environmental specialists more and more." Those most likely to be in greatest demand within the next few years will be experts in the fields of environmental and waste management, but those surveyed also nominated forestry, conservation, landscaping, fishing and water specialists and supervising inspectors. "People will be looking for specialists with university credentials to fill these positions, but those with applied higher education will also be sought after," said Lilleoja. A particular need for specialists in the field is already being felt by around half of The greatest number of positions for environmental specialists to date has been created in the water and waste treatment fields, with fewer in building, farming and the paper and timber industries. The survey also focused on the training of environmental specialists. More than half of those questioned felt that the qualifications of environmental graduates met the requirements of employers. Less than a quarter felt that their training was insufficient, with the majority here feeling that they lacked practical experience. "The results of the survey show that there is a continued need for qualified specialists, and that is something that should be borne in mind when planning environmental higher education," said Lilleoja. The survey was carried out by For further information please contact: Anari Lilleoja Director, Environmental Education Bureau, Ministry of the Environment +372 626 2834 Agnes Jürgens Deputy Advisor, Public Relations Department, Ministry of the Environment +372 626 2811 |
