3 Reasons to Take the IEMA Foundation Certificate

Did you know that almost one in three environmental and sustainability professionals consider themselves career changers? For some, sustainability became essential in their role, and that led them to change paths. Others had a passion for environmental and sustainability issues which they decided to pursue. 

Either way, unless your company has a significant focus on sustainability, you've likely been given extra environmental responsibilities without the knowledge and support you need to be successful. 

Whether you're looking for a quick way of learning the ropes or looking to develop a career in environmental sustainability, the IEMA Foundation Certificate is the perfect place to start. Here are our top 3 reasons you should consider it as your next qualification.

1. Learn the sustainability agenda

The IEMA Foundation Certificate gives a broad understanding of the entire sustainability agenda. Many learners are often surprised by the number of topics they manage to cover in just 40 hours. You'll discover topics such as:

• Core environmental principles (natural cycles, ecosystems, pollution, climate change, human intervention)
• Sustainability and megatrends
• Policy and legislation
• Environmental management systems
• Environmental pollution
• Performance evaluation
• Management and assessment tools
• Communication and the management of change.

By the end of the course, you'll have a good foundation of environmental and sustainability knowledge and the confidence to use it to supercharge your company.

2. Improve your company's environmental performance

Speaking of implementing change, did you know that companies with environmental sustainability strategies are often more profitable?

Of course, the number one benefit of sustainable business is that it keeps the local and global community clean and green. We should all do our bit to help protect the planet for future generations. However, most operations that start implementing sustainable practices almost immediately notice a reduction in their energy demand.

More efficiency means less waste, and waste reduction is incredibly financially beneficial. It can also become a great selling point for your brand and improve your reputation with suppliers and locals.

The IEMA Foundation Certificate will give you the skills to implement positive change in your company and help them reach new heights in environmental sustainability.

3. Progress your career

Unlike other awarding bodies, IEMA has a clearly defined skills map that matches their training courses with professional membership.

The IEMA Foundation Certificate will allow you to apply for Associate Membership of IEMA (AIEMA), the entry point for building a career in environment and sustainability. You'll get recognition for the new knowledge and skills you've gained from the course. Plus, you'll be able to access exclusive publications and events to help you stay up-to-date on all things environmental.

Companies all over the world recognise IEMA as the leading professional body for the environment and sustainability. With an IEMA suffix, you'll be able to show potential employers that you have what it takes to make a difference.

IEMA skills map

As you work your way through the IEMA skills map, you'll be rewarded with more job prospects, exclusive resources, networking opportunities and higher salaries.

The IEMA State of the Profession Survey 2018 reported that environmental professionals could gain a salary increase of around 60% through the progression from Graduate to Practitioner membership. It also found the median annual salary for a full-time environment and sustainability professional was £40,000, up 2.6% from 2017 and well above that for UK employees nationally, which was £28,758.

Perhaps the most attractive finding from the report was that 68% of professionals said they were satisfied with their job. They stated they found the work rewarding and full of opportunity while also feeling optimistic about tackling the world's environmental challenges.

Find out more about the IEMA Foundation Certificate.

Are you ready to start your journey to a bright and sustainable future? Take a look at our IEMA Foundation Certificate training options today!