You can help by studying Agriculture or a related degree, and focusing on sustainable farming solutions . There are all kinds of related degrees to choose from, including ones that specialise in sustainability and food security.
So, you’re heading off to university and you want to make a difference in the fight against climate change? First off, kudos to you! It takes a special kind of person to think about the planet while everyone else is busy trying to figure out how to get a selfie with a cat. But here’s the million-dollar question: what should you study?
You’ve already dipped your toes into the engineering pool, which is a great start. Engineering is like the Swiss Army knife of degrees; it’s versatile, practical, and can help you tackle real-world problems—like, you know, saving the planet. But with so many branches, how do you choose? Let’s dive into a couple of options: Electrical Engineering and Materials Engineering.
Electrical Engineering: Powering the Future
Let’s talk about Electrical Engineering first. This field is all about electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism, which sounds super fancy but, in layman’s terms, it’s how we get our gadgets to work. Why is this important for climate change? Well, think renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. Electrical engineers are the masterminds behind turning those sunbeams and gusts of wind into usable electricity.
Imagine designing the next big solar panel or creating a super-efficient wind turbine. Not only will you be the hero who helps reduce carbon emissions, but you’ll also get to wear a hard hat and possibly look cool while doing it. Who doesn’t want that?
Materials Engineering: Building a Better Tomorrow
Now, let’s switch gears and talk about Materials Engineering. This field focuses on the properties and applications of materials, which sounds about as thrilling as watching paint dry until you realize how crucial it is. Everything around us is made from materials—yes, even that questionable pizza you had last night.
In the context of climate change, Materials Engineers are working on developing sustainable materials that can replace the environmentally harmful ones we currently rely on. Think biodegradable plastics, super-efficient batteries, or even materials that can capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. You could be the one to revolutionize how we build and manufacture products, making them more eco-friendly in the process. Plus, you can impress your friends by casually dropping terms like “thermodynamics” at parties.
So, Which One Is Better?
It’s like choosing between pizza and tacos—both are delicious, but it really depends on your taste. If you’re more into working with electricity, circuits, and renewable energy systems, Electrical Engineering might be your jam. On the other hand, if you’re fascinated by materials and want to innovate how we use resources, then Materials Engineering could be your calling.
Consider Other Options
And hey, don’t forget there are plenty of other paths that can contribute to climate solutions. Environmental Science, Sustainable Design, and even Policy Studies are all critical areas that can lead to impactful careers. You could be the one crafting the policies that put those engineering solutions into action, or you could be the scientist discovering the next big breakthrough in renewable energy technology.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best degree is the one that aligns with your interests and strengths. Take a moment to reflect on what excites you the most. Do you want to play with circuits or experiment with materials? Can you see yourself in a lab, on a construction site, or in a policy office?
Whatever path you choose, remember that you’re not just picking a major; you’re choosing a way to contribute to the planet’s future. And who knows? One day, you might just be the person who saves the world from climate change—no pressure, right?
Good luck, future eco-warrior! Your degree might just be the key to a greener future.
Inspired by: “going to uni and dont know what to study to help the climate” (r/climatechange)