A poll of 1,000 people aged between 15 and 25 found 71 per cent want to work towards a career which doesn’t have a negative impact on the planet.
Many want to get into environmental consulting, energy engineering and geoscience, and 41 per cent would even explore roles in government where they could help shape the nation’s green policies.
On average, these eco-warriors have been eyeing up a career which makes a difference from the tender age of 10.
The research was commissioned by British Gas as part of National Apprenticeship Week (6-12 February) and it’s pledged to recruit 3,500 apprentices over the next decade to train in green skills.
Daniel Gay, an apprentice at British Gas, said: “It’s really encouraging to see that so many young people are influenced in their career choice by taking care of the planet.
“Working with cutting edge renewable technology that’s going to make a real difference to the way people live their lives is so rewarding – and makes me feel like I’m playing my part in contributing to our national net zero targets.”
The research went on to find 94 per cent of those who are exploring these opportunities want to help protect the future of our natural environment.
And nearly three in four (72 per cent) like the thought of getting to the end of the working day knowing they’ve helped people live a greener life.
Progressing careers in green industries
More than half (55 per cent) believe their friends share similar views about working in a greener industry, and the same number say that learning about the environmental crisis in school set them on this path.
Documentaries have been the inspiration for 44 per cent, and 43 per cent say they’ve been turned on to the idea by coverage of the climate emergency on the news.
And while 76 per cent of youngsters with green ambitions intend to go to university, of those who are considering the apprenticeship route, 63 per cent say it appeals because they can start earning right away.
When considering their own lifestyle choices, 42 per cent are doing their bit to recycle and 31 per cent are reducing energy consumption around their home.
And with their shopping habits, 25 per cent are picking up items second-hand where possible, and 24 per cent are buying local.
Overall, the OnePoll study found 88 per cent of young people recognise the importance of living sustainably – despite being in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis.
Daniel Gay from British Gas, which has also committed to hiring 500 former armed forces recruits to retrain as engineers, added: “Switching from a career in the marines to an apprenticeship has allowed me to grow in confidence and progress my career.
“Giving customers tangible ways to live smarter and be more energy efficient helps me feel satisfied that I’m doing my bit for the future of our planet.”
