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Xiu Wu

From Mechanical Engineering Student to Senior Sustainability Consultant

Last updated: Jan 7, 2025

Sustainability Consultant in Climate & Sustainability · Amsterdam, Netherlands

Engineer turned environmental scientist turned sustainability consultant. Climate work is one of the few career changes my parents have come around to. Writing the real story for the next person making this pivot.

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Career Timeline

Education2007-2011
Mechanical Engineering Student
Jadavpur University
Engineering for four years; energy electives pulled me toward emissions and efficiency.
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ContextEngineering for four years; energy electives pulled me toward emissions and efficiency.
ChallengesFamily expectations of "core engineering" jobs collided with my growing interest in sustainability.
LearningsOptionality compounds. Take the elective that confuses you for the right reason.
Skills acquired
Thermodynamicsenergy systemsproject workinternships in manufacturing
Higher Studies2011-2013
M.Sc. Environmental Science
Jadavpur University
Postgrad pivot. Quantitative work mapped GHG emissions across a textile supply chain.
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ContextPostgrad pivot. Quantitative work mapped GHG emissions across a textile supply chain.
ChallengesMost jobs in the field were policy or NGO; consulting roles were rare in India then.
LearningsNew fields need translators between technical reality and business decisions. That role is undervalued and durable.
Skills acquired
GHG accountingenvironmental policylife-cycle assessmentstatisticsR/Python
First Job2013-Present
Senior Sustainability Consultant
Sustainalytics
Joined as analyst and promoted twice in three years. Now leading mid-size client engagements in heavy industry.
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ContextJoined as analyst and promoted twice in three years. Now leading mid-size client engagements in heavy industry.
ChallengesGreenwashing pressure. Saying no to claims that did not survive a math check.
LearningsClimate work is mostly accounting. The romance is in the headlines; the substance is in spreadsheets.
OutcomeLed 9 GHG accounting projects across Indian manufacturers. Three clients adopted science-based targets.
Skills acquired
Carbon disclosuresESG reportingclient engagementframeworks (GRITCFD)training corporates
AdviceIf you are pivoting to climate — pick measurement over manifesto. Numbers age better than narrative.

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Xiu Wu

Career Timeline

Mechanical Engineering Student

M.Sc. Environmental Science

Senior Sustainability Consultant

Reflections & Questions from Readers