Globally, STEM careers are on the rise with new and emerging fields of study. The good news is that more women are opting to pursue science-related subjects than ever before. Even so, the gender gap persists and we have a long way to go before we constitute at least 50 per cent of the STEM workforce. However, there are some areas where the representation of women is higher, such as marine biology. It is noted that when STEM careers overlap with sustainability goals and the opportunity to make a difference, women step in more willingly. Here are some careers for young women to consider, which will harness their STEM skills and contribute to the environment simultaneously.
Geoinformatics
Geoinformatics is a branch of STEM which uses information science infrastructure to help with sustainable urban development. The analysis of land and geography is a key outcome of geoinformatics. This can help organisations and stakeholders make informed decisions while creating infrastructure. It takes various factors into consideration, including biodiversity, water resources, energy consumption, vehicular traffic, and so on. The Government and private players can aggregate and apply this data to create sustainable solutions that positively impact communities around them.
Courses available: B Sc Geoinformatics, M Sc Geoinformatics and PG Diplomas in Geoinformatics
Agricultural Engineering
‘With increased awareness about soil management, organic farming methods and the need to create long-term sustainable solutions in the agricultural sphere, Agricultural Engineering is emerging as a front-runner for people who want to create environmental impact,’ says Dr Dhrithi Upadhyay, a Professor of Environmental Sciences. ‘This is an intersection of three STEM fields – biology, technology and the environmental sciences. As an agricultural engineer, you can design and implement the development of machinery, equipment and processes that reduce the carbon footprint while increasing output. An agricultural engineer can also take up allied disciplines such as renewable energy for irrigation, food processing methods, dairy processing and even aquaculture.’
Courses available: BE Agricultural Engineering, B Tech Agricultural Engineering, M Tech Agricultural Engineering, various PG diploma courses
Solar Engineering
As the name suggests, solar engineers learn to harness the energy of the sun, and work with solar power systems. ‘A solar engineer designs, develops and maintains energy systems that rely mainly on the sun, and in the process, reduce reliance on fossil fuels,’ explains Dr Dhriti. ‘This field of engineering and technology has helped mitigate several climate change issues, creating sustainable energy solutions.’ Solar engineers can collect data, design and execute the creation of solar panels, heating and cooling systems, and even navigation systems.
Hydrology
Hydrology comes from the Greek term that means the study of water. Simple? Not quite. We need to be aware of the distribution of water, its movement over and under the earth, and how to manage it effectively. Hydrology studies the quality, quantity and properties of water, and how human activity can impact water bodies. From groundwater to precipitation, hydrologists acquire in-depth knowledge of all aspects of the water cycle. This knowledge is applied towards creating solutions to manage water resources effectively and sustainably. Controlling floods, ensuring clean water, and managing reservoirs are some areas that a hydrologist can contribute to.
Courses available: B Sc Hydrology, M Sc Hydrology, B Tech Hydrology and Irrigation Engineering
Atmospheric Science
Air is essential for life, and survival on earth. A course in atmospheric science allows you to gain insights into the earth’s atmosphere and how it affects other processes on the planet. You will be able to study about the climate, weather, air quality and interactions with the ocean system and biosphere. It also provides the option to pursue allied fields such as meteorology (weather forecasting) and electromagnetism and radio waves. By studying the earth’s atmosphere and how it acts in conjunction with other systems, you can create sustainable solutions to improve air quality and predict atmospheric trends.
Courses offered: B Tech Atmospheric Sciences, M Tech Atmospheric Sciences
Waste Management Engineering
Waste management engineers are dedicated towards finding solutions for effective waste disposal, in ways that are kinder to the planet. Dr Dhriti says, ‘Huge quantities of non-biodegradable waste are dumped into oceans and landfills, where they potentially end up rotting for centuries. Waste management engineers can devise systems and solutions that enable waste segregation, advanced recycling technologies, plastic waste management and so on. They can even work with organisations and corporates to work on waste management solutions at the manufacturing stage, creating a more sustainable way of operations.’
Courses offered: B Tech Environmental Engineering, PG Diploma in Waste Management, Certificate courses in Waste Management