Environmental scientists and specialists
use their knowledge of the natural sciences
to protect the environment and human health.
They develop strategies
to clean up polluted areas,
advise policymakers,
and work with industry
to reduce waste or hazards.
Environmental scientists gather
and analyze data
to shed light on important questions,
including how to prevent or handle
environmental problems…
then use their findings to inform the public,
private industry, government officials,
and others about environmental hazards.
Day-to-day tasks can vary a lot
among these specialists:
Climate change analysts study the effects of
changing climatic conditions on ecosystems.
Environmental health specialists
study how environmental factors
affect community and individual human health.
Environmental restoration planners
determine how to clean up polluted sites
and assess costs.
And industrial ecologists work with industry
to develop sustainable and efficient practices
that limit adverse impacts on the environment.
While environmental scientists generally
work full time in an office or laboratory,
some head to the field
to check out environmental conditions
and gather samples of air, soil,
water, or food.
Most entry-level positions
require a bachelor’s degree in a natural science
or related field, but a master’s degree
is often needed for advancement.
Whether teaching or practicing methods
to keep our air, water,
and land clean and free of health risks,
the work of environmental scientists hits home.