The devastating bushfires tearing through Australia have left unparalleled damage and broken thousands of hearts around this proud country. But the disaster has also brought out some of the best in people, with millions of dollars and man hours donated in relief efforts for those in need.

With climate change playing a major role in these fires, the country (along with the rest of the world) is calling out for people to make a difference and help slow the destruction currently being felt by those all over the planet.

So, what can you do? You can get to work.

Here are three areas of study that can help get you ready to implement effective change on the environment while you make a living.

Online environmental and sustainability courses are a great place to start if you want to learn how to make a difference at your job. With so many companies looking to go green to not only do their part to help the earth but also impress customers and earn their loyalty, there's a huge range of industries that can benefit from having a qualified person to oversee sustainable operations. From agricultural matters to inner city corporations, you could find yourself doing important research and making decisions that have a lasting impact on both the bottom line and the world.

For something a bit outside the box, you could look into taking nutrition and dietician courses online. The things we put on our plate can have just as much of an effect on climate change as the cars we drive and the things we chuck in the bin. While you don't need to become a militant vegan or force specific food and drink beliefs on others, you can learn more about how eating certain food, such as red meat, affects the environment and help educate others about alternative options.

Entrepreneurs in Australia are changing towns all over the country, and starting your own business with an environmentally conscious idea behind it could be your best bet when it comes to making a positive difference. An online Certificate IV in New Small Business can help prepare you to turn a great, green idea into a tangible output with real-world results.

Ready to turn your professional life into one that reaches far beyond yourself? Get ready to do your part by checking out these great online courses and areas of study that can help you make a difference in the fight against climate change.

Written by Melinda J. Irvine
Melinda J. Irvine
Melinda is a professional writer, blogger and creative. When she’s not writing she works with marginalised kids in the Philippines, supporting their social and emotional wellbeing. You can find out more at melirvine.com.au.