S4105 - Environmental Consulting, Ecological work

Operational Details
Environmental consultants provide advice to companies and other organizations on a wide range of environmental issues such as water, air and soil contamination, hazardous-waste disposal and cleanup, environmental disasters, sustainability initiatives, compliance, green manufacturing and renewable energy.
An environmental consultant conducts both field and desk-based research and will complete and provide detailed scientific reports written in a manner that can be understood by nontechnical people. An environmental consultant may conduct field surveys to collect data in order to establish baseline conditions for such things as water, air or land contamination. The consultants will use their scientific knowledge and technical expertise to interpret the data collected, assess the environmental impacts, present their findings and advise their clients on environmental matters pertaining to the management of environmental issues. They may also help their clients to design and implement efficient systems and processes to mitigate current and future environmental damage.
Ecological work involves the study of the interaction of humanity with their environment and the relationship of organisms to one another and their surroundings. The planning and organizing of ecological studies and presenting findings are an integral part of the ecological services offered by an employer in this industry. While much of the "big picture" research may be undertaken by universities and government, private industry and special interest groups are also involved in commissioning research into the topic as well. These studies are often commissioned by employers such as logging companies, sawmill operators, oil and gas exploration firms, mining companies, refineries and gas plant operators and other resource companies.

Ecological specialists will instruct firms where creek, river or lake crossings should be made, and where culverts should be installed to cause the least impact on the ecological system. The study of wildlife habitat and the effects of building a plant, drilling oil or gas wells or logging an area is also an important service. Streams, wetlands and lake studies are conducted to determine the quality of water and its effect on the environment. The study includes determining the effect on waterfowl, beavers, muskrats, fish and other water inhabitants. Studies are also conducted in wooded and forested areas to determine the impact of the environment on upland birds, deer, moose, elk, etc. Biologists, engineers, chemists, environmental technicians, scientists, and other professionals are employed in conducting research, analysis, tests, presenting findings and publishing papers or reports for use in feasibility studies to be presented to government authorities and environmental groups.

SIC Codes
000000787 - Environmental Consulting