What Is Environmental Engineering?

Environmental engineering is the branch of engineering that is concerned with protecting people from
the effects of adverse environmental effects, such as pollution, as well as improving environmental
quality. Environmental engineers work to improve recycling, waste disposal, public health, and water
and air pollution control, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The practice of environmental engineering dates back to the dawn of civilization. Ever since groups of
people began living in semi-permanent settlements, they have had to deal with the challenges of
providing clean water and disposing of solid waste and sewage. With the growth of cities and the advent
of large-scale farming and manufacturing, people have also had to worry about air quality and soil
contamination.

The first environmental engineer is said to have been Joseph Bazalgette. According to an article in the
Postgraduate Medical Journal, Bazalgette oversaw the construction of the first large-scale municipal
sanitary sewer system in London in the mid-19th century. This was prompted by a series of cholera
epidemics, as well as a persistent unbearable stench, that were attributed to the discharge of raw
sewage into the Thames River, which was also the main source of drinking water for the city. This "great
stink," which was so noxious that it caused Parliament to evacuate Westminster, gave then-Prime
Minister Benjamin Disraeli grounds to ask for 3.5 million pounds to improve the city's sewage disposal
system.

What do environmental engineers do?

Environmental engineers use the principles of engineering, soil science, biology and chemistry to
develop solutions to environmental problems, according to the BLS. Some projects involving
environmental engineers include:

One of the most important responsibilities of environmental engineering is to prevent the release of
harmful chemical and biological contaminants into the air, water and soil, the BLS says. This requires
extensive knowledge of the chemistry and biology of the potential contaminants as well as the industrial
or agricultural processes that might lead to their release. With this knowledge, new processes can be
designed, or existing processes can be modified, to reduce or eliminate the release of pollutants.

Another important function performed by environmental engineers is detecting the presence of

pollutants and tracking them back to their source, the BLS says. In some cases, this can present a
significant challenge. For instance, the source of contamination in a lake could be anywhere within
several thousands of acres of land surrounding the lake and its tributaries. Contamination of oceans can
present even greater challenges in identifying the source.
Once the environmental engineer identifies a source of contamination, it must be stopped or
significantly reduced. Simply shutting down a business is not always a viable option, because of the
potential for severe economic consequences. Environmental engineers often work with businesses to
determine ways to avoid or reduce the production of pollutants or to separate them so they can be
disposed of in a safe manner.

Critical skills needed by environmental engineers include a working knowledge of chemical engineering,
fluid dynamics, geography, geology and hydrology. Also, because of the numerous legal issues involved
and the prevalence of litigation in environmental issues, environmental engineers must be familiar with
applicable laws, and many of them are also practicing attorneys.

Environmental engineering salary

Most environmental engineering jobs require at least a bachelor's degree in engineering, and many
employers, particularly those that offer engineering consulting services, also require certification as a
professional engineer (PE). A master's degree is often required for promotion to management, and
ongoing education and training are needed to keep up with advances in technology; extensive
knowledge of current government regulations is essential. Additionally, many environmental engineers
belong to the AAEES.

According to Salary.com, as of July 2014, the salary range for a newly graduated environmental engineer
with a bachelor's degree was $44,722 to $69,808. The range for a midlevel engineer with a master's
degree and five to 10 years of experience was $65,890 to $106,126, and the range for a senior engineer
with a master's or doctorate and more than 15 years of experience was $82,193 to $133,930. Many
experienced engineers with advanced degrees are promoted to management positions or start their
own consulting businesses, where they can earn even more. Additionally, many engineers go on to law
school and specialize in environmental law and litigation.

What exactly does an environmental engineer do?

Environmental engineers use the principles of engineering, soil science, biology, and chemistry to
develop solutions to environmental problems. They are involved in efforts to improve recycling, waste
disposal, public health, and water and air pollution control.

Is Environmental Engineering a good career?

A degree is only as good as one markets oneself - or as one plans his or her career. One must choose the
right path to follow. Environmental engineers are in demand, but they must be smart when planning
their careers. ... Environmental Engineering is really a good field

What jobs can you get with environmental engineering?

The following are five specific careers that you can excel in after earning an M.S. in environmental
engineering:

Water project manager. ...

Senior environmental engineer. ...

Environmental health and safety director. ...

Environmental engineering consultant. ...

Green building engineer.

What subjects are needed for environmental engineering?

To apply for an environmental engineering degree, you'll need a high school diploma or equivalent (for
example, A-levels in the UK), and will most likely need to provide evidence of background knowledge in
subjects such as mathematics, physics and chemistry.

What skills do you need to be an environmental engineer?

to enjoy technical and engineering activities. good communication skills. the ability to identify, analyse
and solve problems. an interest in the environment and conservation.

What are environmental engineers responsibilities?

Environmental engineers typically do the following: ... Design projects leading to environmental
protection, such as water reclamation facilities, air pollution control systems, and operations that
convert waste to energy. Obtain, update, and maintain plans, permits, and standard operating
procedures.

Why are environmental engineers important?

One of the most important responsibilities of environmental engineering is to prevent the release of
harmful chemical and biological contaminants into the air, water and soil, the BLS says. ... Once the
environmental engineer identifies a source of contamination, it must be stopped or significantly
reduced.