What is Environmental Science?
Is the study of nature and the facts about the environment.
Environment can be defined as "all the social, economical, physical and
chemical factors that surrounds man" or "all abiotic and biotic
components around man; all living and non-living things surrounds
man".
Three Reasons for Studying the State of the Environment
First is the need for information that clarifies modern environmental
concepts like equitable use of natural resources, more sustainable life
styles etc.
Second, there is a need to change the way in which we view our own
environment, using a practical approach based on observation and self-
learning.
Third, there is a need to create a concern for our environment that will
trigger pro-environmental action; including simple activities we can do
in our daily life to protect it.
Major Environmental Issues
1. Air Pollution
The Philippines records PM2.5 levels nearly five times above the World
Health Organization’s safety limits. Major sources of air pollution
include fossil fuel combustion, vehicle emissions, domestic fires, and
fireworks. There are growing calls to revise the 1999 Clean Air Act to
address these challenges more effectively.
2. Plastic Pollution
The country generates approximately 2.7 million tons of plastic waste
each year. Poor recycling practices and widespread use of single-use
plastics worsen the problem. The 2022 Extended Producer
Responsibility (EPR) law mandates that large producers must recover
80% of their plastic waste by 2028.
3. Marine Pollution
About 20% of the Philippines’ plastic waste ends up in the ocean,
severely harming marine ecosystems. The country ranks third
worldwide in marine plastic pollution. National initiatives target zero
marine litter by 2040 to protect aquatic life and coastal communities.
4. Sea Level Rise and Flooding
The Philippines is increasingly vulnerable to coastal flooding due to sea
level rise. In Manila, land subsidence combined with climate change
heightens the risk of displacement for many residents. Coastal
resilience strategies and comprehensive national adaptation plans are
urgently needed.
Source: https://earth.org/environmental-issues-in-the-philippines/
Definition and Scope of Environmental Engineering
Environmental Engineering is a multidisciplinary field that deals with
the management and protection of the environment by applying
scientific and engineering principles. Its main aim is to conserve
natural resources, prevent pollution, and promote sustainable
development.
The scope of Environmental Engineering includes:
Management of Natural Resources: Efficient use and conservation
of resources like water, forests, minerals, and fossil fuels.
Conservation of Ecosystems and Biodiversity: Preserving natural
habitats and maintaining ecological balance.
Prevention and Control of Pollution: Reducing pollution in air,
water, and soil through innovative technologies and methods
Environmental Impact Assessment: Evaluating the environmental
effects of projects and activities to mitigate negative impacts.
Sustainable Agricultural Development: Supporting agriculture with
environmentally sound practices.
Soil Conservation and Erosion Control: Protecting soil resources to
maintain land productivity.
Energy Conservation: Promoting the efficient use of energy
resources to reduce environmental footprint.
Addressing Global Environmental Challenges: Tackling issues like
climate change and resource depletion.
Environmental Engineering is critical because it addresses the
environmental problems that threaten human health, ecosystems, and
economic development.
Its importance role in:
Preventing Pollution: Designing systems and policies that control
air, water, and soil pollution.
Conserving Resources: Encouraging sustainable use and
management of natural resources.
Ensuring Public Health: Reducing exposure to environmental
hazards.
Supporting Sustainable Development: Balancing economic growth
with environmental protection.
Mitigating Global Crises: Combating climate change and ecological
degradation.
Creating Career Opportunities: Offering diverse jobs in industries,
consultancy, research, academia, and green marketing.
Role of Environmental Engineers in Society
Environmental engineers play a vital role in protecting public health
and the environment by managing waste, improving water and air
quality, and developing sustainable solutions. They design and
implement systems to reduce pollution, conserve natural resources,
and support environmental regulations that promote safety. Their work
ensures communities can thrive while minimizing ecological impacts,
contributing to a healthier and more sustainable future.
Systems designed by environmental engineers include:
• Waste management and treatment systems
• Water purification and wastewater treatment plants
• Air pollution control technologies
• Recycling and resource recovery programs
• Stormwater management and erosion control
