In 2007, the State Legislature passed the Next Generation Energy Initiative. It includes three aggressive goals: First, doubling the amount of energy saved by Minnesota's utilities; second, providing 25 percent of energy from renewable resources by 2025; third, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 15 percent by 2015. (For more information, go to www.state.mn.us and search on "Next Generation.")
Meeting these goals will require the use of cutting-edge technology - some of which is already known, some of which is still in development, some of which is still to be developed. Energy conservation and the production of energy from renewable resources will impact every area of technology, from architecture, building operations and construction to information technology.
Taking the Next Step
The career potential is obvious. The problem is trying to get a handle on a field so new, so large, and so diverse. Here are some resources:
The Alliance for Sustainability (www.afsnonprofitoffice.com) is a clearinghouse for green information and hosts a range of programs and initiatives. One of those programs is The Natural Step Framework, a scientifically based approach to sustainability that has been adopted by corporations such as Home Depot, Mitsubishi Electric USA, Electrolux and Ikea, as well as communities and organizations. The Alliance website provides information on public Natural Step seminars. Businesses and organizations can also schedule an introduction or full seminar.
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is the nationally accepted standard for sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality in new and existing buildings. LEED certification is the benchmark for homes, schools, hospitals, retail and commercial buildings. The U.S. Green Building Council offers seminars and online courses for becoming a LEED Accredited Professional. Visit the website www.usgbc.org and click on the Education link to learn more.
The Minnesota College of Art and Design (MCAD) offers an 18-credit certificate in Sustainable Design. The one- and three-credit online courses available each semester cover materials selection, product and packaging design, printing, and marketing, as well as career planning. For information and applications, go to www.mcad.edu and search on "Sustainable."
Going Green? Start Here.
This year's Living Green Expo will be held May 2-4 at the State Fairgrounds. Seminars currently scheduled include Green Building and The Future of Biofuels. Exhibitors will include educators, employers, and businesses that are focused on conservation and sustainability. For complete information, and to sign up for the monthly newsletter, go to www.livinggreen.org.
Laura French is principal of Words Into Action, Inc. and is a freelance writer from Roseville.