Written By: Tahreem N 

Edited By: Morgan Pankarican 

Designed By: Cece Ndiwa 

Published By: Maryam Khan

 

Assume a developer wants to build a new resort near your place, complete with a golf course and a 24-hour salon. Some individuals may have concerns over how the new resort may harm the surrounding ecosystems in your area, as word of it spreads. Your scientific team has been engaged by the neighbourhood to undertake a significant environmental impact evaluation. 

 

It is your responsibility to investigate whether the planned resort would have a negative impact on any plants, animals, water, or air. You’ve spent several weeks gathering soil and water specimens, as well as monitoring the wildlife in the area. You will suggest whether or not a resort should be constructed, where it should be located, and what size it should be in a report to the community. With your report, the residents will be able to make an educated decision for the sake of the environment, and you will feel good knowing that you are contributing to the area’s long-term viability.

 

As an environmental scientist, you offer scientific expertise and recommendations to decision-makers in order to protect the environment during industrialization. You also spend a significant amount of time executing research and completing fieldwork, frequently in groups. Lots of time is spent working alone, both in the lab conducting scientific studies and in the office assessing proposals and preparing reports. Your labour is extremely vital to society, and it earns you the respect of the communities in which you operate.

 

What is An Environmental Scientist

Environmental scientists investigate the effects of human activities on the environment and find solutions to control, reduce, or eradicate any harmful effects, such as air pollution. With rising pressure on industry and governments to decrease the negative consequences of their activities on the environment, environmental scientists are in higher demand than ever.

 

Environmental scientists collect samples, make observations in the field, and perform laboratory testing. They frequently analyze water and soil for contamination often caused by industry and agriculture. These analyses are used to determine the kind, concentration, and source of pollution. The environmental scientist will then conduct a thorough investigation to determine whether the contamination source has the potential to influence or endanger individuals and communities. The next stage is to brainstorm potential solutions to the problem. Typical responsibilities include the following:

  • Determining the most effective data collection methods
  • Carrying out field surveys and data collection carrying out lab testing on water, air, and soil samples
  • Evaluating data to determine whether contamination occurs in compliance with environmental regulations developing conceptual models that identify potential contaminant sources that could harm the environment delivering extensive scientific papers or presentations based on their findings
  • Communicating study findings to senior scientists and important stakeholders

When more senior, developing plans to reduce or eliminate environmental concerns, project and budget management

  • Assisting the government with policies or working with businesses by performing inspections and advising on areas for improvement

 

How Can You Become An Environmental Scientist

A bachelor’s degree in a related area, such as environmental science, environmental engineering, or environmental bioscience, is required to become an environmental scientist. A related scientific degree, such as microbiology, chemistry, geoscience, or physics, can also help you get into this field. Environmental scientists are also likely to hold a postgraduate qualification, such as a master’s or PhD, which may be required for career advancement.

 

Gaining relevant volunteer or paid experience is advantageous when applying for graduate school. You might be able to acquire compensated work experience with local governments or huge corporations. There may also be chances to volunteer with non-governmental organizations and environmental charities. Joining the IEMA (company) might also be beneficial in terms of obtaining work experience.

 

Sources:

https://eco.ca/career-profiles/environmental-scientist/

https://targetjobs.co.uk/careers-advice/job-descriptions/environmental-scientist-job-description

https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/environmental-scientists-and-specialists.htm

https://www.liveabout.com/what-is-an-environmental-scientist-526015