World Youth Day 2024

#YouthDay2024

Celebrate the power of youth on International Youth Day 2024! Join us as we recognise and honour the significant role of young people in shaping our future.

Celebrate the power of youth on International Youth Day 2024! Join us as we recognise and honour the significant role of young people in shaping our future.

The theme of International Youth Day 2024 (12 August) is "From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development." This theme highlights the key connection between digitalisation and accelerating the progress of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasising the crucial contributions of young people in this transformative process.

As the 2030 deadline for the SDGs approaches, youth remain an essential demographic group for leveraging technology's transformative power to address global challenges.

With this in mind, we spoke with two of our youngest team members to learn more about their thoughts on entering the ISO industry and Sustainability.

INTRODUCING...

Helen Budowsky

Energy & Environmental Associate

Clodagh Roche

Energy & Sustainability Associate

QUESTION ONE:

International Youth Day focuses on youth engagement and empowerment. How do you feel young professionals can contribute to the ISO consultancy field?

Young professionals bring passion and enthusiasm to ISO consultancy! The name "management system" doesn't necessarily inspire lots of excitement, but working with others with a common goal of reducing their carbon footprint is exciting to me! It's not just about being a personality hire, it's letting your passion and drive for your career come through in your work!

International Youth Day, which emphasises youth engagement and empowerment, presents a valuable opportunity to reflect on the significant contributions young professionals can make to the ISO consultancy field. As a consultant specialising in ISO 50001, 14001, and 14064 Part-1, I understand the importance of innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement.

Young professionals often have a strong grasp of the latest technologies and digital tools. They can use these skills to improve data collection, analysis, and reporting processes in ISO consultancy. For instance, using advanced data analytics and AI can streamline energy management (ISO 50001) and environmental management (ISO 14001) systems, making them more efficient and accurate.

Our generation tends to be highly aware of and passionate about sustainability issues. These can be shown through strong commitment to the principles of ISO 14001 and ISO 14064 Part-1. Their enthusiasm can drive innovative approaches to environmental management and carbon footprint reduction, helping organizations achieve and exceed their sustainability goals.

We can help create more inclusive and diverse workplaces. By fostering a culture that values diverse perspectives, ISO consultancy firms can benefit from a wider range of ideas and solutions. This inclusivity can enhance problem-solving and drive better decision-making processes within the consultancy field. Effective communication is crucial in ISO consultancy.

Young professionals, being digital natives, can utilise social media and other communication platforms to engage with stakeholders more effectively. They can help in spreading awareness about ISO standards, best practices, and the importance of compliance, thus fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Youth can challenge the status quo and question existing practices, leading to innovative solutions. Our fresh perspective can identify areas for improvement that may have been overlooked by more experienced professionals. This can drive the development of more effective and efficient management systems.

Engaging more young professionals in the ISO consultancy field can drive innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement. Their technological savvy, passion for sustainability, commitment to diversity, and fresh perspectives are invaluable assets. By empowering and involving youth, the ISO consultancy field can evolve and thrive, ensuring that it remains relevant and effective in addressing the challenges of the modern world.

QUESTION TWO:

What inspired you to join Ireland’s leading ISO & Sustainability consultants?

I had just moved to Ireland and was looking for my first job out of college, and had actually applied to a different role (I can't even remember what it was). I got a call from the recruiter for that role, who said that the job I had applied for isn't right for me, but why don't I check out this other company! Between some spotty cell service and my excitement at hearing back from someone a few months into my job search, the only words I got were "sustainability" and "women" and "empowerment". That was all it took! Since I was 7 years old, I knew I wanted to do something with my life that helped combat climate change. The opportunity to do that and to learn from women who have succeeded in the field was better than I had hoped for my first job out of college!

During my studies, I learned about the critical role that ISO standards play in promoting sustainable practices across various sectors. The idea that structured approaches like ISO 50001 for energy management, ISO 14001 for environmental management, and ISO 14064 Part-1 for greenhouse gas accounting could drive significant positive change was compelling. It was clear to me that these standards were essential tools for building a sustainable future.

When I discovered an opportunity to join Ireland’s leading ISO & Sustainability consultants, CG Business Consulting I knew it was the perfect fit. This consultancy was renowned for its commitment to excellence and innovation in the field, offering a platform where I could apply my academic knowledge and passion for sustainability in a practical, impactful way.

Joining the team has allowed me to work on projects that directly contribute to environmental preservation and energy efficiency. It's incredibly rewarding to see the tangible outcomes of our efforts, whether it's helping a company reduce its carbon footprint or improving its energy management practices. The collaborative environment and the chance to learn from experienced professionals have also been invaluable, providing me with insights and skills that go beyond what I learned in the classroom.

In essence, my decision to join this consultancy was driven by a lifelong passion for the environment, a solid educational foundation, and the desire to make a real difference. Being part of a team that is at the forefront of sustainability efforts in Ireland has been both a fulfilling and inspiring experience, reinforcing my commitment to this vital field.

QUESTION THREE:

What advice would you give to other young graduates considering a career in ISO consultancy?

Be ready to learn on the job! Leaving college with my degree, I had thought that would be all I'd need. But even two years in I still learn something new every day. You will work with companies of all different sizes in many different industries, and your experience in one will help you to help others. Don't be afraid to ask questions, and-in whatever way works for you-take notes! I'll still reference notes I took from the beginning of my time here.

Ensure you have a solid understanding of the ISO standards relevant to your interests, such as ISO 50001 for energy management, ISO 14001 for environmental management, and ISO 14064 Part-1 for greenhouse gas accounting. Take courses, attend workshops, and gain certifications that will enhance your knowledge and credibility in these areas.

Internships and entry-level positions in companies that implement or consult on ISO standards can provide invaluable hands-on experience. Look for opportunities where you can assist with audits, compliance checks, and the implementation of management systems. Practical experience will deepen your understanding and make you more competitive in the job market. ISO consultancy requires strong analytical skills to assess processes, identify areas for improvement, and ensure compliance with standards. Enhance your ability to analyse data, interpret regulations, and develop actionable recommendations. Familiarize yourself with tools and software commonly used in the field. The field of ISO consultancy is constantly evolving with new standards, technologies, and best practices. Stay informed about industry trends, regulatory changes, and technological advancements. Joining professional associations, subscribing to industry publications, and attending conferences can help you stay current. Effective communication is crucial in ISO consultancy. You’ll need to explain complex standards and recommendations clearly to clients and colleagues. Work on your verbal and written communication skills, and practice presenting your findings and suggestions confidently. Building a network of contacts in the industry can open doors to new opportunities and provide valuable insights. Attend industry events, join professional organisations like the International Organization for Standardisation (ISO) or local environmental and sustainability groups, and connect with similar professionals on LinkedIn. ISO consultancy is all about adopting a culture of continuous improvement. Be genuinely passionate about helping organizations improve their processes, reduce environmental impact, and achieve their sustainability goals. This mindset will drive your success and fulfillment in the field. Finding a mentor who is experienced in ISO consultancy can provide guidance, support, and advice as you navigate your career path. A mentor can help you understand the nuances of the industry, offer insights from their experiences, and provide valuable networking opportunities. Building a successful career in ISO consultancy takes time and effort. Be patient and persistent, continuously seek opportunities for growth, and be open to learning from both successes and challenges. Your dedication and hard work will pay off in the long run. As a young professional, you have the advantage of bringing fresh ideas and perspectives to the table. Embrace sustainability principles and be open to innovative approaches to problem-solving. Your creativity can drive meaningful change in the organizations you work with.

By following these tips, young graduates can prepare themselves for a successful and fulfilling career in ISO consultancy, contributing to the broader goal of sustainability and organizational excellence.

QUESTION FOUR:

How can ISO standards and practices be used to address global challenges faced by youth today?

My drive in my career comes from my passion for the environment and for addressing climate change. However, with the urgency and severity of the climate emergency, there is so much to do and that can be done to address climate change. Some days I can see this as a wealth of opportunity, but other days it can be overwhelming. This overwhelm, sometimes called climate anxiety, is a feeling I think shared among many young people. The ISO standards can provide a concrete place to start to address even one small part of the climate crisis. Between ISO 14001 environmental management and it's emphasis on reducing waste and pollution, ISO 50001 energy management, ISO 14064-1 greenhouse gas management, ISO 14068-1 climate change management and carbon neutrality, and ISO 14090 climate change adaptation, ISO standards provide a framework to address the climate. In choosing a starting point with ISO, it takes a problem spanning the globe, with many different facets, and narrows it down to one manageable goal at a time.

In today's rapidly changing world, youth face a myriad of global challenges, including climate change, unemployment, social inequality, and access to quality education. ISO standards and practices offer a robust framework to address these pressing issues by promoting sustainable development, enhancing operational efficiency, and fostering innovation. Through the implementation of ISO standards such as ISO 14001 for environmental management, ISO 50001 for energy management, and ISO 26000 for social responsibility, organisations can create resilient systems that not only mitigate negative impacts but also empower young people to drive positive change. By integrating these standards into various sectors, we can harness the potential of the younger generation to build a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future for all.

Here are some relevant standards which I have discover and worked with at my time at CG Business Consulting:

ISO 14064 standards for greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting and verification are crucial tools in the fight against climate change. By providing a clear and consistent framework for measuring and managing GHG emissions, ISO 14064 helps organisations reduce their carbon footprint. This is particularly relevant for youth, as climate change poses significant risks to their future. Youth can engage in climate action initiatives, using ISO 14064 to quantify their efforts in reducing emissions and advocating for more stringent climate policies. There is a growing demand for professionals skilled in GHG accounting and verification, offering youth a pathway to impactful and rewarding careers.

ISO 14001 sets out the criteria for an environmental management system and can be implemented by any organization. This standard helps businesses minimize their environmental impact, comply with regulations, and continuously improve their environmental performance. Youth can advocate for the adoption of ISO 14001 in their schools, communities, and workplaces, promoting sustainable practices and raising awareness about environmental issues. The push for ISO 14001 compliance creates jobs in environmental management, sustainability consulting, and green technologies, providing new career opportunities for young professionals.

ISO 50001 provides a framework for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and improving an energy management system. This standard is designed to help organizations improve their energy performance, including energy efficiency, use, and consumption. Youth-led initiatives can use ISO 50001 to design and implement energy efficiency projects in their communities, contributing to energy conservation and cost savings. The standard encourages the adoption of innovative energy technologies, creating opportunities for young entrepreneurs and engineers to develop and deploy new solutions.

ISO 9001 sets out the criteria for a quality management system and is based on several quality management principles, including a strong customer focus, the motivation and implication of top management, the process approach, and continual improvement. Implementing ISO 9001 in educational institutions can improve the quality of education and training programs, better preparing youth for the job market. Companies that adopt ISO 9001 often see improved efficiency and customer satisfaction, leading to business growth and the creation of new jobs, benefiting young job seekers.

ISO 45001 specifies requirements for an occupational health and safety (OH&S) management system and provides guidance for its use, to enable organizations to provide safe and healthy workplaces. Young workers can advocate for the implementation of ISO 45001 to ensure safer working conditions and reduce the risk of workplace injuries and illnesses. By promoting health and safety standards, youth can drive positive change in labour practices, ensuring that their generation and future ones are protected.

ISO 26000 provides guidance on how businesses and organizations can operate in a socially responsible way. This means acting in an ethical and transparent manner that contributes to the health and welfare of society. Youth can leverage ISO 26000 to lead community projects that address social issues, such as inequality, poverty, and access to education. By promoting corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, young professionals can influence businesses to adopt ethical practices that benefit society.

ISO standards and practices offer robust frameworks that can significantly contribute to addressing global challenges faced by youth today. From mitigating climate change and promoting sustainability to enhancing quality education and ensuring workplace safety, these standards provide the tools necessary for creating a better, more sustainable future. By engaging with these standards, youth can drive meaningful change, advocate for better practices, and carve out rewarding careers that align with their values and aspirations.

Thanks to Helen and Clodagh for taking the time to answer our questions about entering the ISO industry for International Youth Day. We hope you found their responses valuable.