Waste management consultants ensure safe, legal, and efficient disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous waste. They design waste management systems, specialize in different types of waste, and evaluate existing systems. They also determine the safest means of transporting, storing, and disposing of nuclear and hazardous waste. Waste management consultants must have strong communication and computer skills, and may need a degree in environmental science or a related field. Certification exams may be required in some countries.
Waste management consultants ensure that hazardous and non-hazardous waste products are disposed of safely, efficiently and legally. Professionals also help companies design waste management systems that are in line with environmental protection laws, limit pollution, and allow for convenient disposal. A waste management expert might work for an independent consultancy, government agency, industrial manufacturing facility, recycling center, water treatment plant, or hazardous waste management facility.
Depending on their job settings, waste management consultants may be responsible for a number of different tasks. Many people specialize in creating solutions for solid, liquid, airborne or radioactive waste. They analyze existing systems used to control pollution and runoff to determine their costs, benefits and disadvantages. Consultants suggest ways to improve systems and explain why new equipment or procedures should be in place.
Facilities that handle nuclear and hazardous waste rely on expert consultants to determine the safest possible means of transporting, storing and disposing of materials. Consultants use their in-depth knowledge of chemistry, physics and mechanical engineering to make sure freight trucks, safety equipment and isolation sites meet stringent government standards. Professionals could conduct field and internet research to determine the most appropriate location to set up a disposal site, and conduct pollution and radiation tests to confirm that quality standards are met.
Most waste management consultants rigorously study the rules and regulations set by national environmental protection agencies. They are obligated to meet ethical and legal standards in their practice, thoroughly investigating waste disposal sites and reporting infractions to the proper authorities. Consultants evaluate the risks involved in building a new waste management system and attempt to predict the environmental and economic impacts it could have.
Professional waste management consultants must have extremely strong written and verbal communication skills. Much of the work involves writing detailed technical reports and explaining ideas to business owners, government officials, and the general public. A modern waste management specialist must also be computer savvy, able to learn many different computer applications used to analyze air and soil samples, design designs, and subject systems to simulated tests.
Individuals interested in becoming waste management consultants may pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree in environmental science, environmental management, biology, chemistry, or a similar scientific field. Some countries require new consultants to pass licensing or certification exams that test their understanding of environmental regulations and safe handling procedures. Individuals working with radioactive waste must pass additional certification exams before working independently.
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