"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."