Many of the projects seek to reduce carbon emissions and improve sustainability without taking away farmers’ livelihoods. “We don’t drive them away from doing what they do best,” says Mr Lee. “Rather, we shape their livelihoods and show them how to use mangroves to improve their fisheries and aquaculture, for example.”
Conservation International supports conservation research, climate policy development, and conservation project implementation through partnerships on sustainability projects with the private sector, educational institutions and governments. Among other things, it uses research and science-based methods to promote nature-based approaches and creates conservation tools that support conservation projects to protect biodiversity.
The work is rewarding, says Mr Lee, for it fulfills his lifelong love for nature as well as his core beliefs in protecting the environment. He is especially motivated by how the carbon services and trading sector supports these goals by pulling in resources to protect nature without destroying community livelihoods.
“What I enjoy most is being personally involved,” he says. “I get to see the whole process through, mapping real changes in resource use and improvements in people’s lives.” Having been able to apply what he learnt in school, he sees much potential in a career in this sector, with much scope for growth.
“I have ex-classmates in this sector who are working in the government, with private donors, in fundraising – there’s a wide range of roles, from technical and finance to consultancy and advisory,” he says. “There is much room for professional development. This industry has a lot of high capacity and potential.”
Thinking of a career in Carbon Services and Trading?
Singapore has rolled out a range of initiatives to support those who are considering a pathway into the sector:
Training and education opportunities
Dedicated learning initiatives have been set up to equip talent with specialised skills for the carbon services and trading sector. These include the Carbon Market Academy of Singapore by Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and the Sustainability Academy by the National University of Singapore (NUS), both of which offer courses on sustainability and carbon markets.
Clarity on career pathways
For those wondering how to enter the field or what skills are required, the Skills Framework for Carbon Services and Trading offers detailed guidance. Developed by SkillsFuture Singapore, the Economic Development Board (EDB) and Enterprise Singapore, the framework launched this month outlines the competencies and job roles available, making it easier for job seekers and career switchers to chart their path into the sector.
Support for mid-career switchers
For professionals looking to make a transition, Workforce Singapore’s Sustainability Career Conversion Programme provides structured support for upskilling and job placement. The programme helps individuals pivot into sustainability roles, including those within carbon services, by combining training with real-world work attachments.