Waste management isn’t just about emptying bins. Like the cogs in a well-oiled machine, lots of different people help our waste systems in Devon run smoothly. Most of the time, we don’t think even about waste unless something has gone wrong, like litter on the side of a clean street.
How did I get here?
Hello, Sarah here. I’m currently an intern for the Waste Management team at Devon County Council. I grew up in Hong Kong and came to the UK to study Conservation Biology and Ecology at the University of Exeter down in Cornwall.
Alongside university, I volunteered, joined societies and had a part-time job. After graduating in 2024, I took some time off to recover from an intense three years of uni. I struggled to find work in the competitive job market, but I kept reaching out to many different companies. Eventually this led to teaching as an art assistant, doing some work experience in a bookshop, running a local charity’s social media and now this.
Green career in the Waste Management team:
Through applying for this role, I realised I knew a lot more about managing waste than I thought (and you might too!). I was already recycling, repairing clothes, occasionally using zero-waste shops for refills and more.
I feel so lucky to have a fun and varied role that’s split between the Waste Education and Communication teams, both filled with passionate and lovely people. This means I get to help with tours around the Energy from Waste facilities, create engaging social media posts, videos, infographics and even speak to the public at events! I’m currently working on a leaflet about reusable period products, and I’ve just finished creating a video celebrating the International Repair Day event in Barnstaple.
Coming up to three months, I’m finding this role to be deeply rewarding, as it strongly aligns with my values in making a positive difference in the world and fuels my love for learning. There is so much to discover from the waste industry – from behavioural change research and new governmental policies to endless facts about waste-to-energy recovery.
The waste industry offers a wide range of opportunities, and there is something for everyone. Read here to explore different career options you could pick.
Image 1: Photo with ‘Trigger’ the trigger spray at the Recycle Devon flag raising event ahead of Recycle Week at County Hall.
Image 2: Stall at Oakhampton Road show talking to the public about composting and reducing their food waste.
Image 3: Pretending to be an oscillating kiln for a school visit at the Exeter Energy Recovery Facility.
