What is environmental engineering ?

Become a “green” engineer and do your part to save the earth

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The impact of humans on the environment is becoming increasingly apparent, from disposal of waste to the collection of natural resources. Our planet is going through a bad time, and the harm we have caused for centuries is finally catching up with us. If you are worried about the dire state of the planet and wonder what you can do to help? Well, you can. Take a “green job” that helps the environment in some way and do your part to save the planet.

Environmental engineering is the branch of engineering that is concerned with protecting people from the adverse effects of environmental degradation, such as pollution. It includes constructing green buildings, maintaining water quality, reducing air or water pollution and cutting back on waste.

If you opt for a career in the environmental health field, you will be responsible for designing and implementing alternative methods for constructing buildings, managing waste, transporting water, and addressing other engineering aspects. The jobs that come under this domain include Water treatment plant operator, Hydrologist, Environmental scientist, Energy efficiency engineer, and Civil engineer.

As an environmental engineering student you will receive an in-depth knowledge of the subject along with practical training. The subject has traditionally been considered a sub-division of Chemical Engineering and Civil Engineering. In addition, you must also study Biology, Microbiology, Physics, and Organic Chemistry that focus on biodiversity, climate change, soil conservation, ground water conservation and many more.

Water treatment plant operator

As a water treatment plant operator, you ensure that waterways like canals, reservoirs, and sewage system ways are adequately maintained to minimise waste and conserve water supplies for drinking. Additionally, you must conduct water quality tests and operate control room equipment to filter and dispose of waste products.

Your first step in becoming a water treatment plant operator would be to study a high school diploma followed by onsite job training or associate’s degree in waste management.

Hydrologist

A hydrologist studies water movement and uses their knowledge to solve environmental issues related to water quality. If you’re concerned about water issues like water pollution and scarcity, then you’re the right candidate for this career. To become a hydrologist, you must earn a graduate degree in natural sciences and as a hydrologist you get to travel to unusual places around the world and study water and its movements.

Environmental scientist

Environmental scientists are those who examine samples in labs and conduct field tests to determine pollution levels, bacterial outbreaks and other environmental issues affecting local ecosystems. Their findings lead them to draft scientific reports and ask industrial sites and local governments to adjust operations to improve environmental conditions. The first step to becoming an environmental scientist is earning a bachelor’s degree in environmental science or environmental engineering.

Energy efficiency engineer

An energy efficiency engineer tests the electrical systems of manufacturing plants, industrial sites, and commercial and residential buildings. In addition to conducting energy audits for clients and advising them on ways to reduce energy waste in the future, they also find ways to implement renewable energy systems. The best way to become an energy efficiency engineer, you should obtain a degree in environmental engineering or energy systems engineering.

Wastewater engineer

A wastewater engineer designs wastewater treatment plants and man-made waterways like canals, reservoirs, and dams. They also monitor daily operations at water treatment plants. In order to be a wastewater engineer, you must have a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering, civil engineering or mechanical engineering.