Environmental Scientist

Environmental scientists study, assess and record features of the environment and develop methods to conserve the environment and of control or minimise the harmful effects of human activity.

Environmental scientists may perform the following tasks:

plan and conduct research into the physical and biological nature of the environment
undertake laboratory work
monitor the environmental impacts of development activities
conduct research and prepare proposals to minimise the impact of industrial, agricultural and urban processes on the environment
develop conservation plans
investigate and report on breaches of environmental guidelines
run community education programs
assist with environmental emergencies, such as chemical spills and accidents
analyse pollutants, identify their sources and assess their effects on the environment
monitor the effects of pollution and land degradation, and recommend ways of prevention and control
rehabilitate land, water and air affected by mining, logging, construction, degradation or pollution
research matters of immediate and long-term importance to governments and communities, such as the impact of land clearing on native animals and the impact of waste products on waterways
negotiate with, and provide advice to, industry, government and the public on environmental matters, such as the management, re-use or disposal of hazardous materials
assist in developing environmental policies, strategies and codes of practice
conduct environmental audits.

Specialisations:

Ecologist

An ecologist studies the relationship between the environment and the organisms and actions that affect and are affected by it, including animal and plant life, weather patterns and human activity such as agriculture, urban development and pollution.

Environmental Officer

An environmental officer makes sure that businesses and organisations pursue sound management practices that support plant and animal life.

Environmental scientists usually work with a range of other professional and technical staff. The amount of indoor and outdoor work they do depends on the individual job.