Environmental science seeks to understand the natural world and, particularly, how it is affected by human activities. Environmental scientists have expertise in the physical environment (land, air and water) and the living environment (plants, animals and people).
Their work helps to ensure sustainable development by monitoring the state of the environment and developing and implementing practices that minimise the damage caused to the world and its resources. It addresses issues such as land management, conservation, climate change, flood control, population growth and alternative energy supplies. Increasing concern about these issues has resulted in a growth in environmental science.
An environmental scientist may work in a range of different areas, including:
- studying the conservation of plants and animals, working to protect their natural habitats and promote biodiversity
- developing renewable energy supplies, advising oil and gas companies on the likely effects of a new pipeline or monitoring wildlife near a refinery
- helping to identify, minimise and manage environmental effects arising from development proposals, for example housing, power stations and airport runways
- advising on the environmental effects of waste disposal and developing new methods
- collecting and analysing water samples to see if they meet safety and environmental standards, investigating the cause of abnormalities and proposing solutions
- working to protect communities from rising water levels by improving flood defences
- assessing air quality to see if it meets safety and environmental standards, investigating the cause of abnormalities and proposing solutions
- helping businesses identify how they affect the environment and how they can operate in a way that minimises and manages these effects.
Environmental scientists usually work as part of a team. They often advise colleagues or managers, some of whom may not have a scientific background, by writing reports or making presentations.
An increasing number of scientists work as consultants, as part of a firm or on a freelance basis. In many cases they are brought in to assist with environmental impact assessments, which are required for many developments before permission is granted.
Skills and personal qualities
An environmental scientist needs:
- a sound background in science, biology or geography
- an inquisitive nature and good research skills
- a precise and methodical approach
- planning and problem-solving skills
- the ability to analyse and interpret data
- to be able to communicate effectively with all kinds of people
- the ability to explain technical subjects to non-scientific people
- to work well as part of a team
- to have a practical outlook and enjoy working outdoors
- the ability to speak a foreign language if carrying out research work abroad.
Interests
It helps to be interested in:
- science
- geography
- environmental issues.
Getting in
Environmental scientists are employed by a wide range of organisations. The main employers include local authorities, environmental agencies, water companies, consultancies, engineering and construction firms and environmental lobbying organisations. An increasing number of scientists work on a consultancy basis.
The number of environmental science posts is rising. However, competition is also increasing as more people undertake study in this field.
New entrants to this area typically have a Bachelor Degree in a relevant subject, such as Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Environmental BioBioscience.
A number of Institutes of Technology throughout the country offer suitable courses at level 7 / 8 including CIT, DIT, Dundalk IT, GMIT, IT Carlow, IT Sligo, Limerick IT, Tralee IT among others, as well as the Universities.
It is increasingly common to have a postgraduate qualification
Salary and other benefits
These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary, depending on the employer and where people live.
- A new entrant may earn around €25,000 a year.
- With experience, earnings may rise to around €34,000.
- Senior environmental scientists with management responsibilities may earn €50,000 or more.
Useful Links:
Environmental Protection Agency
Department of Agriculture Food and The Marine