What Does an Environmental Study and Audit Consultant Do?

A Environmental Study & Audit consultant is responsible for providing expertise and advice on environmental matters to businesses, organizations, or government agencies. They work to ensure compliance with environmental regulations, minimize risk and liability, and promote sustainability practices. The position often requires a combination of fieldwork, office work, and client site visits. An Environmental Study & Audit consultant uses a broad understanding of the environment, paired with technical knowledge and familiarity with regulatory requirements to conduct thorough environmental assessments and identify solutions for their clients.

During a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment (ESA), a consultant performs a thorough inspection and evaluation of a property. This typically includes the review of past and current land use, soil and groundwater conditions, as well as an investigation of possible hazardous materials or wastes. Phase 1 ESAs are

 often required during a property sale or financing transaction, particularly for properties with presumable environmental risks such as car washes, gas stations, and manufacturing facilities.

An Environmental Compliance Audit is similar to a financial audit, but instead of providing advice on financial matters, the ECA provides guidance on ensuring that a company is operating within regulated environmental laws and guidelines. These audits help to avoid costly violations and penalties, maximize efficiency, and eliminate safety hazards for staff members, customers, and the general public.

Using data and information obtained during an environmental assessment or an audit, the ECA develops strategies to improve operations, processes, and products in order to reduce or eliminate negative impacts on the environment. This can include recommendations for improving energy and water efficiency, reducing greenhouse gases, implementing recycling programs, or promoting sustainable practices. They can also advise on establishing an Environmental Management System (EMS) to manage and monitor the environmental performance of a business.

As a senior consultant, you can expect to earn around PS45,000, with higher salaries possible for those with postgraduate qualifications or who are working in high demand fields like contaminated land and waste management. Typically, you will receive additional employee benefits like a mobile phone allowance or company car, pension schemes, and share options.

Getting started in a career as an environmental consultant can be difficult, but there are a number of different routes to take. Many consultancy firms have graduate training programmes and summer placements that can give you the relevant experience to progress into a junior role. You can also find internships with local councils and through specialist recruitment agencies. Alternatively, you can volunteer with an organisation that carries out environmental conservation or sustainability projects. Finally, if you have completed your degree, local universities may offer courses in environmental studies and ecology.