What Does an Environmental Planner Do?

An environmental planner is a type of architect who creates development plans that consider the environment’s impact. The majority of professionals in this field have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, though many also have graduate degrees in architecture, environmental studies, or other related fields. Environmental planners work for both public and private organizations, and their responsibilities may include the design and development of environmentally conscious new buildings and recreational areas, as well as the retrofitting of existing developments and the formulation of environmental policy.

To become a professional in the field, most environmental planners go through several years of training. Environmental studies, environmental planning, urban and rural architecture, and engineering degrees can all lead to a promising future career. Some students may pursue graduate or doctoral degrees in planning and development, allowing them to advance in the field. After graduation, new planners may need to work in associate or entry-level positions for a while before beginning a full-time career as a planner.

Finding contracts and developing a plan for a proposed site or retrofitting project are two of an environmental planner’s primary responsibilities. Planners may conduct a variety of studies to analyze the land, drainage, and ecosystem of the site in question when creating a development blueprint. If the development poses a risk to the environment, a planner may try to find ways to mitigate or mitigate these concerns. When designing a new park through an existing natural area, for example, a planner might take into account the ranges and habitats of local wildlife and design paths and structures that allow visitors to access the area without disturbing the animal residents.

When an environmental planner creates plans for a new building or complex, he or she considers materials and technology that will make the finished product environmentally friendly. Environmental planners may include features such as recycled material insulation, wood sourced from sustainable tree farms, and clean energy alternatives such as wind and solar power in their building plans. When retrofitting an existing structure, the planner may look for ways to replace environmentally unsound materials like lead-based paint or chemically treated carpeting, as well as incorporate new technology that makes the structure more energy efficient and environmentally friendly.

An environmental planner in the public sector may also work to develop new policies that promote sustainable development. They may collaborate with a variety of government departments, such as housing, interior, and environmental agencies, to replace outdated pollution and building standards with new policies that help reduce environmental damage while allowing for necessary development. Government planners may also be involved in the creation and maintenance of public recreation areas such as national monuments, protected wildlife preserves, and national parks.