Environmental economist

What does an Environmental Economist do? – Tasks and Work Environment

An Environmental Economist analyzes and evaluates economic issues related to the environment and sustainable development. Tasks often include investigations of environmental policy instruments, reviews of corporate environmental strategies, and socio-economic impact assessments of environmental measures. Environmental Economists collaborate with authorities, companies, and research institutes to develop solutions that combine economic growth with environmental sustainability. The work environment is generally office-based, involving project work, meetings, and occasionally field studies depending on the employer and focus area.

Salary development over time

The salary development for Environmental Economists has been clearly positive in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 47,800 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 54 000 SEK, representing approximately a 13% increase. Up to 2024, the average salary has continued to rise and is now 57 100 SEK, which is an additional increase of about 5.7% compared to the previous year. This trend reflects a growing demand for specialized skills in environmental economics, as environmental issues have gained greater political and socio-economic importance. The salary increase can also be explained by more employers valuing advanced education and experience in sustainable development.

Environmental Economist salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 57 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,300 SEK/month (women), 49,400 SEK/month (men)
• Highest salary: 56,500 SEK/month (women), 65,200 SEK/month (men)
• Hourly wage (average): 343 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 92% of what men do (54 800 SEK/month vs 59 400 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Data on regional salary differences is not available for this profession

Education and qualifications

To work as an Environmental Economist, a university degree in economics with an environmental focus is usually required, often complemented with courses in environmental science or sustainability. Many employers also seek experience in analysis work and project management, as well as good knowledge of statistics and socio-economics.

• Formal degree: Bachelor's or master's in economics, often with an environmental profile (3–5 years)
• Additional courses: Environmental economics, environmental policy, statistics
• Internships: Internships or trainee programs within authorities, consulting firms, or research environments
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies plus mathematics and social studies
• Certifications: Courses in sustainability reporting or environmental management can be advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Environmental Economists are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, pension schemes, and flexible working hours. Other common compensations include professional development, opportunities for remote work, and sometimes extra vacation days. The extent of benefits varies between employers, but larger authorities and international organizations generally offer broader benefit packages.

Competition and challenges

Competition for jobs in environmental economics is relatively high, especially for research or policy-oriented roles. Since the profession often requires advanced knowledge of both economics and environmental science, clear specialization and relevant work experience are important. Challenges can also include translating complex environmental data into usable decision-making tools for companies and authorities. Additionally, the role demands staying updated on new environmental regulations, policy instruments, and methodological developments.

Tips for aspiring Environmental Economists

To succeed as an Environmental Economist, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with an interest in societal issues and the environment. Strong communication skills facilitate translating complex analyses into clear recommendations for decision-makers. Building a network early within the environmental and economic sectors increases chances for interesting internships and jobs. Problem-solving ability is central, as the work often involves balancing different societal interests and finding sustainable compromises. Continuous skills development, such as courses in environmental economic models and digital analysis tools, is also recommended. Engagement in sustainable development is a key driver, along with carefulness and structure to ensure quality in work. Finally, curiosity and proactivity are advantageous for staying updated on new environmental trends and political initiatives.

Key facts about Environmental Economists

• Education level: Bachelor's or master's in economics
• Work environment: Office-based, often within authorities, consulting firms, or research environments
• Typical work form: Full-time, project-based, often interdisciplinary collaboration
• Demand: 758 available jobs within the profession of economists and macro analysts
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 92% of what men earn

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an Environmental Economist, opportunities exist to advance to roles such as project manager, senior analyst, or specialist in sustainability strategies. Many also choose to work internationally, for example within UN agencies, EU institutions, or global consulting firms. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, no precise assessment is available for the profession due to limited data, but the overall development within the profession of economists and macro analysts shows good prospects. The increasing societal focus on environment and sustainability is expected to boost demand further. Digitalization and new analytical tools also create new specializations and career paths within the field.

Frequently asked questions about Environmental Economists

• What is the salary of an Environmental Economist?
  - An Environmental Economist has an average salary of 57 100 SEK per month. The highest salary is 65,200 SEK, and the lowest is 41,300 SEK.
• What education is required to become an Environmental Economist?
  - Usually, a bachelor's or master's degree in economics with an environmental focus, supplemented with environmental courses, is required.
• What does the job market look like for Environmental Economists?
  - There are 758 available jobs in the profession. The demand is considered good but varies across sectors.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 92% of what men earn in the profession.
• What are the job responsibilities of an Environmental Economist?
  - Tasks include analyzing environmental policy instruments, impact assessments, and working on sustainability strategies.
• What personal qualities are important for an Environmental Economist?
  - Analytical skills, communication skills, and a commitment to sustainable development are especially important.