Zara Hamilton, Sustainability Officer, Ards and North Down Council
What subjects did you enjoy at school that supported your career path?
A-levels – Geography, Economics and Home economics
Did you study at university or higher education?
Yes
What course did you study?
Geography BSc and Leadership for sustainable development MSc
What does a typical day or week in your role look like?
My role is all about creating a more sustainable borough in Ards and North Down by supporting both environmental protection and community wellbeing. In a typical week, I might develop environmental policies or sustainability strategies, attend meetings to make sure sustainable practices are included in council projects, or organise public engagement activities to encourage local action on climate and environmental issues.
What part of your job do you find most interesting or exciting?
I really enjoy working with a wide range of people from different departments within the council to local residents and other council officers across Northern Ireland. It’s exciting to share ideas, collaborate on projects, and see how different perspectives can help create more effective and creative solutions for sustainability in our community.
What advice would you give to pupils who are interested in a career in sustainability?
Sustainability is a wide-ranging subject, so there’s always something new to learn. If your school has an eco-club, get involved, or consider volunteering with organisations like Ulster Wildlife or the National Trust. These opportunities give you hands-on experience, help you understand real-world environmental issues, and show how you can make a positive impact in your community.