Engineering an Environmental Cleanup

Environmental engineering deals with everything from keeping our water pure to cleaning up chemical spills like the Exxon Valdez spill. A distance education could move you towards a career helping to promote a healthy and safe environment.

Environmental Disaster

Environmental engineering was an integral part of the cleanup for the Exxon Valdez spill. In March 24, 1989, the Exxon Valdez ran aground on the Bligh Reef, and thousands of people were brought in to clean up the oil.

One environmental engineering technique used on some of the oiled beaches was bioremediation. Bioremediation involved fertilizing beaches to promote the growth of microscopic bacteria that eat the hydrocarbons.


The use of high pressure cold and hot water treatment was also used to clean up the beaches. The cleanup efforts officially lasted four summers, and some beaches still have oil on them to this day.

A Day in the Office

Normally, a day in the office as an environmental engineer is not quite so high profile. Environmental engineering works on matters such as air and water pollution control, recycling, waste disposal, and public health issues. They help keep our water clean and develop new systems to treat municipal and industrial water supplies. Environmental engineers also develop ways to deal with hazardous waste.


Environmental engineering combines your scientific strengths with your love of the environment. You may already be conscious of various concerns such as acid rain, global warming, and automobile emissions. A degree from an environmental engineering school would allow you to take an active role in safe-guarding the environment.

Environmental Engineering Jobs

Environmental engineering jobs are found in professional, scientific, and technical services, as well as in all levels of government. Some jobs can also be found in manufacturing industries.

An environmental engineering school could greatly help you in getting into this industry. A distance education may be one option to getting your degree, and it may also help with staying informed. You need to learn about new areas of emphasis and techniques for dealing with hazardous materials. With an environmental engineering degree, you'll be ready when the next Exxon Valdez disaster hits. Until then, you can begin exploring engineering schools, whether available online or on-campus. Once finished, look forward to an exciting career in environmental engineering.

About the Author

James Tolles is the Asst Editor at HQ Publications. He has worked on a successful political campaign for a local city council member and written press releases, ad copy, and campaign literature. During his time in politics, he helped write and edit the successful application for Sparks, NV that earned the city honors as a 2004 All-America City Finalist-a title held by only 30 cities in the nation. He is also a freelance writer. He attended a four year liberal arts college and holds two B.A. degrees, one in Creative Writing and the other in History.

Sources:

• Bureau of Labor Statistics.
• Exxon Valdez Oil Spill Trustee Council.