Ranjan K Baruah
We have seen how armed conflicts and wars have affected our lives. In general we look at the casualties from the perspectives of human beings or properties which got damaged or destroyed. If we look closely then we shall find that our environment is also destroyed and mostly remains unpublicized victims of wars or conflicts. We have seen in our region how forests are cut down or wild animals are killed.
The United Nations Environment Programme has found that over the last 60 years, at least 40 percent of all internal conflicts have been linked to the exploitation of natural resources, whether high-value resources such as timber, diamonds, gold and oil, or scarce resources such as fertile land and water. Conflicts involving natural resources have also been found to be twice as likely to relapse. On 5 November 2001, the UN General Assembly declared 6 November of each year as the International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict.
When we are talking about the issues and challenges at the same time we have to also discuss solutions and how we can link our careers with environmental protection or something like eco restoration. Environmental conservation is the performance of understanding, protecting and preserving the environment and associated resources so people, animals and other living things can be promoted for a limitless number of years. Few job profiles in the areas could be ecological restoration technicians, horticulturists, environmental field technicians, foresters, environmental protection agents, natural resource specialists, environmental studies professors, wildlife biologists, sustainability consultants, etc
At present, many people may find careers in environmental protection that match their personal skills and dreams. For example, someone interested in working outdoors might choose to become a conservation biologist, park ranger, wildlife manager, or forester. A person who enjoys working with the public might explore working as an outreach specialist in environmental education, public relations, environmental journalism, or nature interpretation—or in some other communications specialty.
Aspirants should preferably take science after secondary level if they want to make their careers related to environmental protection. However to become a lawyer or journalist or activities one may be from other courses too. Students who have studied agriculture may also find opportunities in this area. Most of the colleges and universities in the country offer courses related to environmental science and students may take admission in reputed institutes in the country or may go abroad for higher studies. Ecosystem Restoration Certificate Course is also offered by Centre for Environment Education in India. Apart from academic qualification aspirants must have skills to be employed or get self employment as consultants.