The relevance of data – why you should learn data-related skills

Data has become the backbone of the modern job market in Europe, playing a pivotal role in driving innovation and growth across industries. With the European Green Deal aiming for a climate-neutral continent by 2050, the demand for data professionals is growing exponentially. The green transition is not just a political agenda but a technological one, where data is central to understanding and optimising sustainability efforts. A recent report by the European Commission on the European Data Strategy suggests that the data economy could be worth up to €829 billion by 2025, potentially creating over 10.9 million data-related jobs across the EU1. This surge reflects the critical need for skills that can harness data to innovate and implement sustainable practices, reducing environmental impact and promoting cleaner, more efficient processes.

What are the 3 most demanded skills in green data jobs?

Data Analytics & Business Intelligence: The ability to interpret and visualise complex datasets is essential for identifying sustainability trends and areas for improvement. Professionals skilled in tools such as Python, R, and information visualisation platforms like Power BI and Tableau are particularly requested for roles that involve optimising energy consumption and tracking carbon emissions.

Data Governance & Management: As organisations collect vast amounts of environmental data, there is a critical need for professionals who can ensure this data is accurate, compliant, and ethically used. Data governance helps organisations maintain data integrity and security, which is crucial for transparent reporting on sustainability goals.

Machine Learning & AI for Sustainability: Advanced analytics and predictive models can transform how we approach sustainability challenges. Machine learning algorithms are used in everything from predicting renewable energy output to optimising logistics for reduced carbon footprints. Skills in machine learning and AI are increasingly necessary for roles that focus on making processes more efficient and environmentally friendly.

These are 3 greenest data jobs

Sustainability Data Analyst: These professionals collect and analyse data related to environmental performance, helping organisations track progress toward sustainability goals. They play a key role in reporting on metrics like energy efficiency, waste reduction, and carbon emissions.

Circular Economy Data Specialist: Focused on promoting the principles of the circular economy, this role involves analysing data to optimise resource use, reduce waste, and design products for longer life cycles. Specialists in this field are integral to transforming traditional production models into more sustainable, closed-loop systems.

Renewable Energy Data Engineer: With the increasing shift to renewable energy sources, data engineers are needed to develop systems that collect and process data from wind turbines, solar panels, and other installations. Their work ensures that energy production is optimised and aligned with grid demands, supporting a more resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure.

Conclusion. How can aspiring professionals and students get ready for green data jobs?

Lifelong learning is crucial in staying relevant in the evolving landscape of data-centric careers. The EIT Campus is your gateway to a sustainable data career. Through our diverse range of courses, you will get expertise in data analysis, AI and sustainability principles. Stay ahead of the curve and contribute to a greener future by joining the EIT Campus and our online community today.


Get an awesome job in Data and AI with EU Data Jobs
For those looking to break into the data job market, the EU Data Jobs platform is an invaluable resource. Our platform allows users to filter job listings by specific skills, industries, making it easier to find roles that match your qualifications and interests. Whether you are an experienced professional or just starting out, you can discover a variety of opportunities tailored to your unique skill set. Visit EU Data Jobs to start your search and take the next step in your data career.

The EIT Campus and EU Data Jobs have started a strategic partnership to equip professionals in the data field with the skills needed to accelerate Europe’s green transition. By fostering a collaborative ecosystem, we aim to help individuals to drive sustainable innovation and contribute to a more resilient future. Join our upcoming asynchronous online Q&A session from the 14th to the 28th of October to know further about exciting collaboration, discuss opportunities for professional development, and learn how you can be part of shaping Europe’s green data revolution