A new “green” industry is gaining momentum in Brazil and beginning to recruit professionals for strategic roles. The regulated carbon market—which allows companies and countries to offset greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by purchasing credits tied to environmental initiatives—was established by a government bill at the end of 2024 and is expected to be fully operational by 2030.
According to the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC Brazil), the sector could attract up to $120 billion in investment over the next five years, potentially generating 3.4 million jobs by 2040.
Professionals in this segment, which has been active in other countries for more than two decades, are recruited to lead projects aimed at reducing GHG emissions, such as the adoption of clean energy and reforestation efforts. They may also calculate an organization’s carbon footprint, advise leadership on sustainable practices, and facilitate carbon credit negotiations between companies.
“In the last two years, we’ve seen an 18% increase in the number of projects recruiting for this area,” says Kleber Bonancio, senior associate manager at Talenses, an executive search firm that has specialized in carbon market hires for six years. “The number reflects growing interest in the topic in Brazil, especially after progress on regulated market discussions and projections of sector contributions.”
By Jacilio Saraiva; translated by Todd Harkin Via Valor