When we talk about climate change and protecting our environment, the voices of minority communities are too often missing. The people shaping policies, leading organisations, or sitting on influential panels don’t always reflect the communities most affected by these issues.
As a South Asian professional in environmental health, I see this first-hand. Our voices are too often absent from the room and that needs to change.
The environmental and sustainability sector is one of the least diverse industries in the UK (right up there with farming). Too many young South Asians either don’t know these careers exist or feel shut out of them. Why?
There aren’t enough role models in senior positions to show that these careers are possible.
Opportunities often come through networks that aren’t accessible to everyone.
Unconscious bias still influences recruitment and career progression.
The result? Talented individuals are being overlooked, and the sector misses out on fresh ideas and perspectives.
It’s not just about careers. Conversations around climate and sustainability often fail to reflect everyone’s experiences, leaving out voices that need to be heard. This disconnect distracts from the real work we need to do and makes minority communities feel alienated from sustainability discussions.
But here’s the good news: recognising the problem is the first step toward change. And there are concrete ways South Asians can play a stronger role in shaping a greener future.
1. Speak Up
Minority communities are often on the front lines of environmental health issues—from pollution in busy urban areas to poor housing conditions. By engaging in public discussions, writing to MPs, or joining community forums, we can ensure our experiences influence decisions.
2. Support the Next Generation
Educating young people about current environmental issues—and showing them career pathways in this field—creates a more diverse and inclusive sector. Mentorship, school programs, and outreach can make a real difference.
3. Lead Local Green Projects
From community gardens to energy-saving initiatives at temples, mosques, and gurdwaras, small projects can inspire entire neighborhoods. When South Asian professionals lead these efforts, it sends a clear message: sustainability belongs to all of us.
At Buckingham Futures, diversity is at the heart of what we do in environmental health recruitment.
Our hiring processes are fair and inclusive, giving candidates from all backgrounds a real shot.
We mentor young people, particularly from South Asian and minority backgrounds, to explore careers in environmental health.
Our leadership team is diverse, showing there isn’t just one type of person who “fits” in this industry.
If we want the environmental sector to truly serve society, it has to reflect society. And that starts with amplifying voices that have been too quiet for too long.
