Today’s generation about to enter the workforce have grown up in a world of uncertainty. From economic meltdowns to global security threats and climate change, a world with many challenges awaits. So is it any wonder that so many of us now what to get involved and develop our skills to be part of the solution? And the good news is that it can also be lucrative to help save the world – with global blue-chips waking up to the need to solve global challenges and philanthropists like Bill Gates investing heavily in companies with an environmental focus. Now is definitely the time to get involved in science, the environment and public safety. Here are four ways to get involved:

Food Scientists

When it comes to global challenges, food security is at the top of the list. From over-expanding populations to fluctuations in climate and loss of arable land, we as a human race will need to learn how to use science to yield more food from much lower resources. Careers are opening up at a massive pace to meet the challenges of trying to produce more. Combining cutting-edge science with the opportunity to travel globally and have a lasting impact on even the most marginalised communities. With bioculture, crop development and water conservation all playing a major part, food security is an area of multidisciplinary research which can make a truly rewarding career path.

Public Safety and Planning

The work of our emergency services has been in the spotlight lately as they battle against a constantly shifting security threat, and there is plenty of scope to become involved. Including law enforcement, firefighters, parole officers, border service officers, emergency managers, intelligence analysts and more, there’s a home for anyone who cares about social justice issues and home security. Taking a public safety degree can be a first step to exploring these issues and getting involved.

Biochemists

With an ageing population, there are a number of unique healthcare challenges in store for the developed world, and a change in the population makeup that will see an increased demand for specialist products and services alongside healthcare. Cell development, heredity and disease will become key areas of focus – and biochemists will be uniquely positioned to help. Unlocking the mysteries of development and DNA will become more pressing as the drive to eradicate diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer’s grows.  Combating illness, age-related degeneration and the limits of the human body are a fascinating way to contribute to the global good.

Environmental Engineers

Tackling pollution and environmental damage is a huge focus for global conglomerates who are realising both their corporate social responsibility and the (more pressingly to them) the threat to their own viable futures posed by our rapidly changing climate. There are a huge range of different level careers in many areas – from environmental scientist who may work to solve damage in the environment or reduce waste to engineers who install photovoltaic power sources or transportation managers who introduce greener forms of mass transit – the roles for supporting eco-friendly developments in industry are huge and highly rewarding.