Environmental engineers are tasked with saving the planet. But how can they do it without breaking the bank?

Green designs are not always 100% cost effective and easy to apply. However, those negatives can be minimized by planing and proper policy developments.

The International Green Construction Code(IgCc) provides the minimum requirements to safeguard the Environment, Health, Safety and Welfare through the establishment of requirements that are intended to reduce the negative impacts and increase the positive impacts of the built environment.

In my experience, incorporating green design principles from the outset of a project leads to more sustainable and cost-effective outcomes. An example of the benefits of green design is when a company reduced its energy consumption and waste generation by implementing eco-friendly practices in its manufacturing process. I agree, but it's important to acknowledge that implementing green design may require initial investment and adjustments to traditional practices. However, the long-term benefits in terms of resource savings and environmental impact make it worthwhile.

Specific software tools aid in this process, including Autodesk Fusion 360 for 3D design with considerations for energy efficiency and sustainable materials, SOLIDWORKS Sustainability for assessing the environmental impact of materials, Autodesk's Green Building Studio for sustainable construction projects, CES Selector for material selection based on technical and sustainability criteria, and CATIA by Dassault Systèmes for advanced design and engineering considering environmental aspects. These tools assist engineers in evaluating and implementing green design principles, fostering the creation of more sustainable products from the early stages of the engineering process.

Environmental engineers should prioritise green design, using life cycle thinking to bolster sustainability. Their approach should emphasize durability, heightened recycled content, and recyclability, extending product lifespans and reducing waste. By integrating recycled materials, It would contribute to conserve resources and curb pollution, fostering circularity in production processes. Additionally, they should promote easy repairability and maintenance, reducing resource consumption and encouraging local skill development. These multifaceted strategies would, make a significant step towards a greener, more sustainable world.

Nature mimicking biological systems often offer the most cost effective way to solve a problem, with less negative long term (and future cost) repercussions. Ex: Bugs not drugs in agriculture Ex: passive drying beds for wastewater sludge rather than expensive power sucking solutions, and Ex: homeopathic remedies for health issues.

Environmental engineers can save money and resources by applying green design principles to their work. Green design aims to reduce environmental impact throughout a product's life cycle by considering factors like energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste reduction. By integrating green design, engineers create cost-effective, innovative solutions. Additionally, optimizing processes and maximizing resource utilization further reduces costs and environmental impact. Collaboration and continuous improvement also play crucial roles in achieving sustainable and economical outcomes.

Através do Ecodesign, que é todo processo que contempla aspectos ambientais em que o objetivo principal é projetar ambientes, desenvolver produtos e executar serviços que de alguma maneira irão reduzir o uso dos recursos não renováveis ou ainda minimizar o impacto ambiental durante seu ciclo de vida. Em outras palavras, o conceito é aplicado para reduzir a geração de resíduo e economizar custos de disposição final.

I would like to touch at the core of the issue, by pointing out that green design should be linked with BAT/BEP at normative level. We need to infuse this thinking to a more tangible application such as Best Available Technologies. For instance, in Barcelona Convention, Contracting Parties of the Convention agreed to enhance the definition of BAT under one of Convention's Protocol reading as "The use of the best available techniques shall aim at preventing or minimizing the environmental impacts along all stages of life cycle of products and keeping as long as possible the value of products, materials and resources in the economy, minimizing the generation of waste." Also, this is leading to a normative re-definition of the BAT.

Green design: The design and application of any product with environmentally friendly that could not pollute the environment. In fact the first choice of methods is rely on the sanity of our attitudes and thinking towards saving the planet by deterring of pollution activities of our environment. Sanity starts with clearing of egoistic thinking preventing from grabbing of an extensive environmental resources, energy etc. As Environmental Engineer i recommend that any development shall attain equity among utilization of natural resources and need of of human beings.

In my perception, life cycle assessment (LCA) is an invaluable tool for environmental engineers to ensure the sustainability of their projects. For instance, when designing a new packaging material, LCA can analyze the environmental impact of various options, considering factors like energy consumption, emissions, and waste generation across the entire life cycle. This allows engineers to make informed decisions that minimize environmental harm and maximize efficiency.

ISO 14040/14044 provides the core principles and framework for conducting Life Cycle Assessments. One click LCA is a platform that provides free bootcamps and hands-on training on Construction Life Cycle Assessment and Environment Product Declaration.

Life cycle assessment (LCA) is a valuable tool for environmental engineers, offering insights into a project's environmental impact from inception to disposal. By utilizing LCA, engineers can identify key environmental aspects, compare alternatives, and communicate solutions' benefits to stakeholders. This approach ensures informed decision-making, optimizing resource use and minimizing negative impacts while maximizing cost-effectiveness. Ultimately, integrating LCA into project design empowers engineers to create sustainable, economically viable outcomes.

LCA is one of the Decision Support Systems (DSS) which should give a more precise forecast before a decision is taken. As such, it can be as complex as the natur and the impacts them self. I wonder if new development of AI can help to unburden a bit the the meticulous process of data driven DSS'. This would be a great contributing to LCA application and will widen its use.

Engineers can utilize Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) with specialized software like Simapro, OpenLCA, and GaBi to comprehensively analyze and optimize products, processes, or services, considering environmental impacts throughout their life cycle. This approach, aiding in material selection, waste management, and sustainable design strategies, allows engineers to make informed decisions and contribute to reducing the overall environmental footprint of engineering projects, while also considering economic and social aspects.

Overall, the significance of LCA lies in its ability to drive towards more sustainable and resilient business practices, promote environmental stewardship, and contribute to the transition to a more sustainable economy and society. As organizations increasingly recognize the importance of sustainability, LCA plays a crucial role in helping them understand, measure, and manage their environmental impacts in a systematic and strategic manner.

A Avaliação do Ciclo de Vida (ACV) é fundamental para os engenheiros ambientais que buscam soluções sustentáveis. Ela oferece uma visão completa do impacto ambiental de produtos, processos ou sistemas, capacitando decisões informadas e ações de melhoria. Com a ACV, é possível comparar alternativas, priorizar ações e comunicar benefícios ambientais de forma clara, construindo casos para práticas mais sustentáveis.

Concordo com o texto, mas acho que está faltando a dimensão de impacto das organizações. Por meio da ACV é que as organizações poderão garantir ao consumidor quais impactos um produto possui ao longo do seu ciclo de vida, podendo portanto orientar seus produtos ou serviços ao desenvolvimento de uma economia verdade sem a prática de greenwashing.

The role of carbon markets is crucial in the context of circular economy, as they provide the financial mechanisms necessary to support and scale up these solutions. Through collaboration between policymakers, businesses, and engineers, we can accelerate the transition to a circular economy that contributes to a low-carbon and economic sustainable future.

Embracing the circular economy not only benefits the environment and economy but also fosters innovation and collaboration within the engineering community. By shifting towards circular models, engineers are prompted to develop creative approaches to maximize resource efficiency and minimize waste. This encourages the emergence of new technologies and partnerships aimed at closing resource loops and creating value from previously discarded materials. Additionally, the circular economy promotes interdisciplinary cooperation, enabling engineers to leverage diverse expertise to address complex environmental challenges effectively.

The circular economy, epitomized by initiatives like Patagonia's Worn Wear program and Fairphone's modular design, presents a paradigm shift towards sustainability. By reusing, repairing, and recycling materials, environmental engineers can mitigate waste and enhance resource efficiency, fostering a regenerative economy. Industrial symbiosis, exemplified by the Kalundborg Eco-Industrial Park, demonstrates the transformative potential of collaborative resource sharing.

The circular economy is crucial for its sustainable resource use, promoting reuse, recycling, and minimizing waste and environmental impacts. This approach, exemplified in countries like Brazil, addresses pollution, conserves natural resources, fosters innovation, and creates economic opportunities, contributing to a sustainable balance between human needs and environmental well-being.

I agree, but the greatest challenge to the full realization of the circular economy approach would be original equipment owners (OEMs) or those with patented environmental solution products, equipment and materials. They would be thinking of how this would limit the volume of demand for their products, equipment and materials.

A economia circular é essencial para os engenheiros ambientais promoverem sustentabilidade e eficiência de recursos. Eliminando desperdícios e maximizando a utilização de recursos, ela reduz a pressão sobre o meio ambiente e os sistemas de eliminação de resíduos. Mantendo materiais em ciclo por mais tempo, conserva recursos preciosos e cria oportunidades para inovação. Além disso, gera empregos, torna os sistemas econômicos mais resilientes e reduz a poluição, contribuindo para um futuro mais sustentável.

In my perception, collaboration and communication are essential skills for environmental engineers striving to achieve their goals. Given the multidisciplinary nature of environmental engineering, effective collaboration with engineers, scientists, policymakers, and communities is crucial. By mastering collaboration, environmental engineers can leverage diverse perspectives to drive innovation and influence positive change. Additionally, clear and persuasive communication of ideas and results is vital for building trust and garnering support for sustainable initiatives. Overall, honing collaboration and communication skills empowers environmental engineers to make meaningful contributions to addressing environmental challenges.

Additionally, environmental engineers should prioritize stakeholder engagement as a crucial aspect of their work. Engaging stakeholders, including local communities, NGOs, and governmental bodies, fosters a deeper understanding of the environmental challenges and concerns faced by different groups. By involving stakeholders in decision-making processes and project planning, environmental engineers can ensure that solutions are not only technically sound but also socially and culturally appropriate. Furthermore, proactive stakeholder engagement can help preempt conflicts, build consensus, and garner support for sustainable initiatives, ultimately leading to more successful and impactful environmental projects.

A natureza multidisciplinar da engenharia ambiental exige colaboração para abordar problemas complexos. Trabalhar com pessoas de backgrounds diversos enriquece a resolução de problemas, levando a soluções mais inovadoras. Uma comunicação eficaz é vital para inspirar ação e promover mudanças positivas. Construir confiança através da transparência é fundamental para estabelecer parcerias colaborativas. Além disso, os engenheiros ambientais podem influenciar políticas compartilhando conhecimento com formuladores de políticas, contribuindo para regulamentações mais eficazes. Em resumo, dominar essas habilidades permite que os engenheiros ambientais desempenhem um papel crucial na construção de um futuro mais saudável e sustentável para todos.

Dominate the management of this skill in particular is critical to design and execute environmental goals and plans for the continuos improvement.

Furthermore, embracing a mindset of lifelong learning enables environmental engineers to remain agile and responsive to shifting environmental priorities and emerging sustainability concerns. By actively seeking out professional development opportunities, such as workshops, seminars, and certifications, engineers can stay ahead of industry developments and equip themselves with the tools and insights needed to address evolving environmental issues. Additionally, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and collaboration within environmental engineering teams can amplify the collective expertise and innovation potential, leading to more effective and sustainable solutions.

Once we stop learning, we are as good as dead. It is said that a football coach is as good as his/her last game. In the same vein, it could also be said that an Environmental Engineer is as good as his/her last design or solution

O aprendizado contínuo é crucial para os engenheiros ambientais. Mantê-los atualizados, adaptáveis e inovadores é essencial em um campo em constante evolução. Isso permite resolver desafios emergentes, explorar novas oportunidades de carreira e contribuir para um futuro sustentável. Em suma, a busca constante pelo conhecimento é fundamental para o sucesso desses profissionais na proteção do meio ambiente e na construção de um mundo melhor para todos.

Umweltingenieure können die Umwelt schonen, ohne die Kosten zu sprengen, indem sie auf innovative, effiziente Technologien setzen, Ressourcen optimieren und auf Kreislaufwirtschaft setzen. Ein Fokus auf Prävention und nachhaltiges Design kann langfristig positive Auswirkungen haben.

Para realmente salvar el planeta tenemos que tener en cuenta que cada entorno tiene sus propias características biológicas. Al comprender realmente las necesidades de las especies nativas podemos actuar en consecuencia, y con ello apoyar las especies locales. Podemos mitigar todo lo que favorezca el crecimiento de las especies invasoras, desde factores biológicos y abioticos.

Choosing materials with low environmental impact such as rapidly renewable materials, recycled content or locally sourced options can reduce the embodied carbon emissions and hence supports to sustainable practices. Without breaking the bank!! Many governments offer credits, tax breaks and rebates for green building and sustainable practices.

Like everything else in the business world, financial sustainability must go hand in hand with environmental and social aspects of sustainability. Requirements or regulations are always costly and often generate public discontent. Considering the exemplary living style that's environmentally responsible, promoting environmental conservation, and advancing research and technologies that help resolving environmental issues are the first steps in the right direction.

It is required to the existing policies, Acts and rules in a way promoting green practices duly giving respective project clearances bading on the green technologies adopted. Business models must run taking Environmental economics also into the consideration.

Avoiding consumerism could be a great step. Till the time mankind is not happy with the minimum that is required for one, we cannot stop pollution and depletion of resource. How much can a billionaire consume in his whole life? The more you produce beyond the minimal requirement, the more will be waste. We cannot just save the planet while we target to be the consumer of maximum possible.

Any such projects prior to awarding to be include the clauses for environmental protection policies and terms and conditions.

E se antes de todas estas ações.. trabalhássemos o Propósito nas pessoas? Em vez de ensinar ESG, economia circular, ODS, Reciclagem, etc, fizéssemos com que cada um sentisse - genuinamente- o porquê devem salvar o planeta? Trabalhar os porquês ajudará que todos fiquemos na mesma sintonia, potencializando as ações.

Leveraging advancements in areas such as AI and data analytics can enhance the efficiency, accuracy, and effectiveness of environmental assessments, monitoring, and mitigation strategies. Additionally, incorporating principles of resilience and adaptation into project designs can help anticipate and mitigate the impacts of climate change and other environmental stressors, ensuring the long-term sustainability of engineering solutions. Moreover, fostering partnerships with stakeholders across sectors, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and local communities, can facilitate collaborative problem-solving and the co-creation of innovative solutions that address the diverse and interconnected challenges facing our planet.

Não vai funcionar se não quebrar alguns bancos… a lógica econômica precisa ser alterada. Permitir que o dinheiro gere renda sem produzir nada pressiona o setor produtivo a ser mais agressivo e por fim impactando mais o meio ambiente. Eu começaria mexendo justamente nos bancos…

Any single faculty/discipline that is lorded to save the world is doomed to fail and is also dangerous imo. I do not agree that so called environmental engineering are too 'save the world'. Preposterous. You need very smart, very innovative and very knowledgeable people in many fields to do this.