Environmental College

What is Environmental Engineering?

Environmental engineers are concerned with protecting the environment by assessing the impact a project has on the air, water, soil and noise levels in its vicinity. This is done by studying the project's design, construction and operation, and minimising any adverse effects that it may have on the environment.

Environmental engineers are also involved in removing problems caused by past activity, such as cleaning contaminated industrial land so it can be used for housing. They predict what problems may be caused by accidents, such as oil spills for example, and assess what may cause problems for the environment in the long term.

They also plan and design equipment and processes for the treatment and safe disposal of waste material and direct the conservation and wise use of natural resources. They are involved in research and development of alternative energy sources, water reclamation, waste treatment and recycling.

Environmental engineers may work with government departments or in the private sector with resource processing companies as consulting engineers.

About the Environmental College

The Environmental College:

Provides leadership and focus within Engineers Australia on environmental policy and sustainability.
Directs and coordinates Engineers Australia's consultations with government, other professions and the community, on environmental issues.
Coordinates continuing education and professional development.
Accredits registered schemes including the management of the National Engineering Register for Environmental Engineers.
Consults with other Colleges to develop environmental engineering programs for their members.
Forms partnerships with other professional bodies in Australia and overseas.

Environmental engineering groups

Related groups and societies

Sustainable Engineering Society (SENG)

SENG is an inclusive industry association. It welcomes new members including professionals from other fields of engineering and the natural and social sciences who are working towards environmental sustainability.

BEDP Environmental Design Guide

The BEDP Environmental Design Guide provides building design professionals with accurate, accessible, professional literature on how to reduce the environmental impact of the built environment.

The Natural Edge Project

The Natural Edge Project (TNEP) is a not-for-profit partnership project involving significant supporters with expertise in how to achieve sustainable practices through resource training programs, publications and lecture tours. It seeks to provide capacity building resources to contribute to making the world a better place.

Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand (EIANZ)

The Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand is a professional body that facilitates interaction among environmental professionals, promotes environmental knowledge and awareness, and advances ethical and competent environmental practice.

Useful links: Working overseas