What do Environmental Scientists do?

Environmental scientists work to improve our knowledge and understanding of natural and modified ecosystems, working to achieve sustainable outcomes for our environment and human health and well-being.

They seek solutions to problems using their skills to identify, research, plan and resolve environmental issues.  They work across a range of industries from agriculture to conservation, environmental consulting to mining and many more.  In these professions they integrate their discipline expertise drawing on their transdisciplinary biological, physical, earth as well as social sciences skills. The work of an Environmental Scientist is challenging but rewarding and provides opportunities to expand one’s horizons by building global networks to tackle global environmental issues.

Graduates of environmental science degrees work in a variety of roles in museums and herbaria, zoos and botanic gardens; commercial industry; local, regional and national government departments; environmental protection agencies; biosecurity agencies; national policy departments, conservation groups, national parks and wildlife management; forestry; water and soil conservation; environmental consultancies; environmental management, mining (rehabilitation, waste control and treatment); ecotourism; or secure research careers with CSIRO, university or industries.