More than 65% of South Africans inhabit cities, the centres of economic activity and employment. The dense populations in cities require creative and innovative solutions in housing and work spaces and manufacturing processes. Air-conditioning and refrigeration are key contributors to greenhouse gases, warming urban centres and climate change impacts. To reduce and minimise human and environmental impact, these processes need to function effectively and efficiently.

Air-conditioning and refrigeration mechanics install and maintain piping, ducting and equipment for heating, cooling and ventilation of buildings and vessels. They also check and overhaul systems, diagnose faults and repair and replace defective components.

Air-conditioning and refrigeration mechanics may work in varied environments with climate control equipment, from homes to office buildings, retail centres and factories. They can work irregular hours, responding to emergencies and site conditions can be dangerous and cramped. They may also work alone, as part of a team or with associated tradespeople.

SKILLS

Air-conditioning and refrigeration mechanics must have a thorough knowledge of electrical and airflow principles and processes and an understanding of compliance and safety regulations. They will also benefit from:

• excellent problem-solving ability
• ability to read and interpret varied specification drawings
• physical stamina and strength
• good communication skills.

TASKS

• interpret blueprints, drawings and other specifications
• test systems, diagnose faults and perform routine maintenance or servicing
• assemble, install, and repair components for air-conditioning and refrigeration systems
• connect piping and equipment by bolting, riveting, welding or brazing.

STUDIES

Air-conditioning and refrigeration mechanics will benefit from a National Certificate in Engineering Studies in Electrical Systems offered at technical and vocational education and training colleges. Additionally, courses can be taken at the Air-conditioning and Refrigeration Academy and Paddy's Refrigeration and Air-conditioning Training Centre.

EMPLOYERS

• air-conditioning and refrigeration contracting companies
• installation and service maintenance companies
• manufacturing companies.

67% of the South African population live in cities. Increasing urbanisation puts significant pressure on the demand for adequate and appropriate housing as well as the natural environment. Affordable housing and buildings that minimise environmental impact can change cities into inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable living and work spaces. Architecture involves the design of buildings and associated structures.

Architects design and advise on buildings as well as provide concepts, plans, specifications, and detailed drawings for construction. They negotiate with builders, estimate building costs, materials needed, and project time frames to build. Architects interested in sustainability can design buildings that conserve water and energy and include systems for improved waste management. They also undertake research and advise on the sourcing and procurement of more sustainable building materials.

Architects engage with builders, engineers, urban planners, interior designers, and other professionals involved in building projects. They mainly work in an office environment and could spend some time visiting building and construction sites.

SKILLS

Architects must have excellent spatial competence and understanding of architectural principles and design and knowledge of building regulations. They will additionally benefit from:

• prepare project designs integrated with structural, mechanical and aesthetic elements
• write building specifications and contract documents for builders
• liaise and consult with clients and relevant stakeholders and specialists
• monitor construction or restoration projects to ensure compliance with quality standards and regulations.

TASKS

• interpret blueprints, drawings and other specifications
• test systems, diagnose faults and perform routine maintenance or servicing
• assemble, install, and repair components for air-conditioning and refrigeration systems
• connect piping and equipment by bolting, riveting, welding or brazing.

STUDIES

• B.Arch.Stud., B.Arch.Stud. (Hons), M.Arch. at NMU, UCT, UFS, UJ, UKZN, UP and Wits
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Applied Science Architecture at UP
• Diploma, Advanced Diploma, M.Tech in Architectural Technology at DUT, NMU, TUT and UJ.

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government.
• architectural firms.
• building contractor and construction companies.
• research institutions.

Cities are centres of economic growth and play an important role in providing social and economic opportunities for urban communities. As urbanisation and associated demand increases, global societies are challenged by equitable and sustainable development. This is a particular challenge in a developing nation like South Africa. Environmental economics involves the study of the economic and financial value of the environment and conservation.

Environmental economists study the economic and financial valuation of natural resources from extraction, through value adding processes, use and waste returned to the environment. They investigate the implications of economic incentives for the environment and the use of natural resources in sustainable practices and environmental opportunities. They can conduct cost-benefit analyses of industrial activities and cost environmental impacts as well as develop cost-effective and sustainable recommendations based on research findings.

Environmental economists work mainly in an office environment and could also spend some time in client environments such as landfill sites, for example when consulting and advising stakeholders.

SKILLS

Environmental economists require a comprehensive knowledge of economic trends, patterns, practices and policies related to environmental concerns, and will also benefit from:

• strong mathematical and statistical skills
• extensive research competence
• excellent analytical skills in micro, meso and macroeconomic trends
• good verbal and written communication and presentation skills.

TASKS

• research impacts of environmental conservation initiatives and projects
• monitor and analyse market and environmental trends
• develop costing models and make recommendations for environmental policy and plans
• advise and provide reports to policymakers, industry and other stakeholders.

STUDIES

• B.Com., B.Com. (Hons), M.Com. in Economics at all universities
• B.Econ., B.Econ. (Hons), M.Econ. at RU and UWC
• B.A., B.A. (Hons), M.A. in Politics, Philosophy and Economics at NWU, SU, UCT, UJ, UKZN, UNISA, UP and Wits.

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government
• financial and banking institutions
• NGOs, community-based and development organisations and private consultancies
• research institutions.

Cities as hubs of intensive economic activity use vast amounts of electricity and water, produce large volumes of waste and require efficient infrastructure for the movement of goods, services and people. With increasing urbanisation, creative housing solutions are also required to maximise land use while minimising environmental impact. Environmental engineering involves designing construction methods, processes and outputs that minimise impacts on the natural environment.

Environmental engineers manage the implementation, coordination, monitoring, evaluation and reporting of projects related to construction, environmental impact assessments, natural resource management and pollution control. They research proposed or existing construction projects to determine potential environmental risk and impact, report findings and advise on mitigation measures. These engineers are also involved in the design of improvements, additions or new sustainable facilities or processes and are responsible for obtaining the necessary permits and updating standard operating procedures.

Environmental engineers collaborate with environmental scientists, urban and town planners, hazardous waste technicians and other engineers and specialists. They work between offices and specific project sites overseeing development and ensuring compliance.

SKILLS

Environmental engineers require a comprehensive knowledge of engineering principles and environmental regulations, processes and challenges. They will further benefit from:

• ability to apply engineering science and design
• logical analytical and problem-solving ability
• independent project management competence
• good written and verbal communication and presentation skills.

TASKS

• conduct research, assess and report on environmental impacts
• design and oversee the development of systems, processes and equipment for control, management or remediation of environmental quality
• provide engineering and technical support for environmental remediation
• report and advise on projects and procedures related to environmental impact.

STUDIES

• B.Sc.Eng. in Civil Engineering at UCT, UKZN and Wits
• B.Eng. in Civil Engineering at SU, UJ and UP
• Diploma, Advanced Diploma, M.Tech in Civil Engineering at CPUT, CUT, DUT, MUT, TUT, UNISA, VUT and WSU.

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government
• construction and mining organisations
• waste management companies
• NGOs, community-based and development organisations and private
• consultancies.
• research institutions.

Cities, centres of dense social and economic activity face many environmental health challenges, that impact people and the environment. This could include pollution of air and water, impacts of flooding, contaminated food sources, risks associated with the disposal of wastewater or the management of excessive waste. Environmental health concerns the identification, analysis and remediation of activities and risk that impact human, animal and environmental health.

Environmental health officers develop, enforce and evaluate environmental health policy, legislation and regulations. They investigate incidences and activities that pose health risks and develop and implement strategies and programmes to mitigate these. They can also develop educational programmes to inform individuals on health and safety matters. Some can also identify, evaluate and control air pollution sources, highlighting challenges and opportunities for its reduced impact.

Environmental health officers liaise between organisation managers and regulatory bodies sharing current and new regulations. They can work in an office environment and often travel to visit, sometimes harmful sites for inspection.

SKILLS

Environmental health officers require an in-depth knowledge and understanding of environmental health legislation, policy and compliance with regulations. They will additionally benefit from:

• competence to easily explain complex legislation and procedures
• keen attention to detail
• strong interpersonal and negotiation skills
• good verbal and written communication and presentation skills.

TASKS

• identify, test and report risk in the environment and workplace
• advise on methods to eliminate, prevent, control or reduce exposure to hazards
• develop, implement and review environmental pollution programmes
• implement educational programmes to minimise potential environmental risks.

STUDIES

• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Environmental Management at UFS, UJ, UNISA and UP
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Environmental Health at UP
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons) in Environmental Health at NMU and UJ
• Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Environmental Health at CPUT, CUT, MUT and TUT.

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government.
• mining and construction companies.
• all manufacturing and production companies, particularly food and
• beverage manufacturers.
• medical service providers.
• tourism accommodation providers.
• private consultancies.

The South African constitution enshrines the right of all people to an environment that is not harmful to health or well-being and one that is protected for current and future generations. This right devolves into various other laws intended to prevent environmental degradation and pollution, promote conservation and sustainable development, and enable sustainable access and use of natural resources that support livelihoods. Environmental law involves the application of the law to ensure human and environmental rights.

Environmental lawyers provide legal advice, prepare and draft legal documents and conduct negotiations on behalf of clients on matters associated with the law and the environment. They develop policies and engage in litigation that prevents further environmental damage, enforce environmental compliance and ensure that people have access to natural resources or are adequately compensated for any loss resulting from transgressions.

Environmental lawyers spend time between an office, travelling to sites of complaints and transgressions to gather further evidence and information and court for litigation. They can sometimes engage various stakeholders to obtain additional insight into environmental cases.

SKILLS

Environmental lawyers must have a detailed knowledge of human rights, environmental and administrative laws and understand legal and procedural requirements for environmental decision-making, coupled with:

• excellent legal research competence
• objective analytical ability and attention to detail
• strong networking and interpersonal skills
• excellent writing competence.

TASKS

• provide legal research and opinions on environmental matters
• compile evidence and interview clients, witnesses and persons of interest
• counsel and advise clients that seek environmental law input
• negotiate legal agreements and liaise between stakeholders.

STUDIES

• LLB., LLM. in Environmental Law at NWU, RU, UCT, UKZN, UL, UP, Wits and UWC

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government
• private practice law firms
• NGOs, civil society and advocacy agencies.

Urbanisation continues to intensify across cities of the world. This increases the demand for housing, infrastructure, transport, urban green spaces, consumer goods and adds a significant burden on waste and air quality management as some examples. Effective environmental planning and management is needed to create sustainable, inclusive and resilient cities. Environmental management has a key role to play in assessing, advising and guiding sustainable urban development, as well as supporting both urban and rural conservation and environmental planning.

Environmental managers plan, organise, direct, control and coordinate the development and implementation of environmental management systems for private, public and civic organisations. They identify and develop opportunities to alleviate environmental challenges in compliance with environmental legislation and ensure corporate sustainability. They also undertake environmental impact assessments and audits and develop and monitor environmental and sustainability initiatives.

Environmental managers oversee teams of technical, scientific and engineering staff. They can work between office environments analysing organisational processes and perform site visits to audit and observe organisational processes and performance.

SKILLS

Environmental managers require experience in implementing organisational environmental systems and a solid understanding of environmental impact, management, laws and regulations, coupled with:

• extensive research capability
• advanced data analysis and analytical thinking ability
• excellent interpersonal skills
• strong verbal and written communication and presentation skills

TASKS

• monitor, evaluate and report on an organisation's environmental performance
• plan, direct and coordinate environmental services and related work activities
• manage budgets, control expenditure to ensure efficient use of resources
• oversee the selection, training and performance of staff.

STUDIES

• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Environmental Management at UFS, UJ, UNISA and UP
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Environmental Science at NMU, RU, UCT, UJ, UKZN, UMP, UP, UWC and Wits
• Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Environmental Management at CPUT
• Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Environmental Science at TUT.

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government
• production and manufacturing companies
• conservation and environmental organisations
• power generation utilities
• private consultancies..

With increasing urbanisation, cities attract and host a large percentage of a country's population. With this concentrated social and economic activity, there is a need to better manage aspects of the environment such as air and water quality, the processing of large volumes of all forms of waste and managing urban amenities. Inspecting environmental practices helps to promote the healthy functioning of urban spaces by identifying environmental challenges and ensuring compliance with environmental laws and regulations.

Environmental practices inspectors examine businesses and industrial sites to ensure compliance with environmental laws and bylaws. They inspect permits and licenses and issue warnings for environmental transgressions. They can conduct follow up interviews with repeat offenders and report them to higher authorities. Some can also investigate the processes and functions of companies to check whether environmental systems and processes are functioning correctly and adhering to regulation levels.

Environmental practices inspectors work between an office environment, documenting information and travelling to sites to carry out inspections. Site inspections can be dangerous depending on the nature of activities where safety gear may have to be worn.

SKILLS

Environmental practices inspectors require comprehensive knowledge and be able to practically apply environmental laws and regulations. They will also benefit from:

• critical and analytical thinking ability
• keen attention to detail
• strong interpersonal skills
• good verbal and written communication skills.

TASKS

• inspect facilities and collect samples for testing
• prepare inspection records and produce and review compliance reports
• examine legitimacy of permits and licenses
• investigate health and safety complaints, determining the nature of a violation.

STUDIES

• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Environmental Science at NMU, RU, UCT, UJ, UKZN, UMP, UP, UWC and Wits
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Geography specialising in Environmental Studies at all universities
• LLB., LLM. in Environmental Law at NWU, RU, UCT, UKZN, UL, UP, Wits and UWC.

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government.

Over two thirds of South Africans live in cities. This spatial concentration of people, economic and social activities in cities increases the need for better planning, housing, green open spaces, economic activity, transport and waste processing amongst others to minimise environmental challenges and risks. Environmental remediation supports urban planning by using engineering strategies and processes to assist in the rehabilitation and prevention of environmental degradation.

Environmental remediation specialists analyse and modify new and existing environmental engineering technologies and apply them in the prevention, control and remediation of environmental challenges. In the development of sites, they conduct pre-assessment studies and recommend measures to prevent environmental impact. If environmental damage has occurred, they monitor and evaluate the site, provide feedback reports and design and implement remedial action plans. Some might develop systems for hazardous waste sites and water treatment facilities.

Environmental remediation specialists regularly collaborate with environmental scientists, hazardous waste specialists, engineers and experts in law and business. They work between an office environment and often travel to sites of investigation to conduct analyses.

SKILLS

Environmental remediation specialists need extensive knowledge and experience with environmental management and impact assessment techniques and processes and an understanding of engineering principles, along with:

• understanding of environmental legislation and standards
• ability to practically apply engineering and mapping principles
• strong analytical and problem-solving ability
• good report writing and communication skills.

TASKS

• monitor and evaluate programmes for operational effectiveness and compliance
• design and oversee the development of systems, processes and equipment
• provide engineering support for environmental remediation and litigation
• advise on rehabilitation and preventive programmes.

STUDIES

• B.Sc.Eng. in Civil Engineering at UCT, UKZN and Wits
• B.Eng. in Civil Engineering at SU, UJ and UP
• Diploma, Advanced Diploma, M.Tech in Civil Engineering at CPUT, CUT, DUT, NMU, TUT, UJ, UNISA, VUT and WSU.

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government
• engineering and environmental consultancies
• industrial processing and mining companies
• property development and construction companies
• waste management companies.

More than 65% of South Africans inhabit cities, the centres of economic activity and employment. The dense populations in cities require creative and innovative solutions in housing and work spaces and manufacturing processes. Air-conditioning and refrigeration are key contributors to greenhouse gases, warming urban centres and climate change impacts. To reduce and minimise human and environmental impact, these processes need to function effectively and efficiently.

Air-conditioning and refrigeration mechanics install and maintain piping, ducting and equipment for heating, cooling and ventilation of buildings and vessels. They also check and overhaul systems, diagnose faults and repair and replace defective components.

Air-conditioning and refrigeration mechanics may work in varied environments with climate control equipment, from homes to office buildings, retail centres and factories. They can work irregular hours, responding to emergencies and site conditions can be dangerous and cramped. They may also work alone, as part of a team or with associated tradespeople.

SKILLS

Air-conditioning and refrigeration mechanics must have a thorough knowledge of electrical and airflow principles and processes and an understanding of compliance and safety regulations. They will also benefit from:

• excellent problem-solving ability
• ability to read and interpret varied specification drawings
• physical stamina and strength
• good communication skills.

TASKS

• interpret blueprints, drawings and other specifications
• test systems, diagnose faults and perform routine maintenance or servicing
• assemble, install, and repair components for air-conditioning and refrigeration systems
• connect piping and equipment by bolting, riveting, welding or brazing.

STUDIES

Air-conditioning and refrigeration mechanics will benefit from a National Certificate in Engineering Studies in Electrical Systems offered at technical and vocational education and training colleges. Additionally, courses can be taken at the Air-conditioning and Refrigeration Academy and Paddy's Refrigeration and Air-conditioning Training Centre.

EMPLOYERS

• air-conditioning and refrigeration contracting companies
• installation and service maintenance companies
• manufacturing companies.

67% of the South African population live in cities. Increasing urbanisation puts significant pressure on the demand for adequate and appropriate housing as well as the natural environment. Affordable housing and buildings that minimise environmental impact can change cities into inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable living and work spaces. Architecture involves the design of buildings and associated structures.

Architects design and advise on buildings as well as provide concepts, plans, specifications, and detailed drawings for construction. They negotiate with builders, estimate building costs, materials needed, and project time frames to build. Architects interested in sustainability can design buildings that conserve water and energy and include systems for improved waste management. They also undertake research and advise on the sourcing and procurement of more sustainable building materials.

Architects engage with builders, engineers, urban planners, interior designers, and other professionals involved in building projects. They mainly work in an office environment and could spend some time visiting building and construction sites.

SKILLS

Architects must have excellent spatial competence and understanding of architectural principles and design and knowledge of building regulations. They will additionally benefit from:

• prepare project designs integrated with structural, mechanical and aesthetic elements
• write building specifications and contract documents for builders
• liaise and consult with clients and relevant stakeholders and specialists
• monitor construction or restoration projects to ensure compliance with quality standards and regulations.

TASKS

• interpret blueprints, drawings and other specifications
• test systems, diagnose faults and perform routine maintenance or servicing
• assemble, install, and repair components for air-conditioning and refrigeration systems
• connect piping and equipment by bolting, riveting, welding or brazing.

STUDIES

• B.Arch.Stud., B.Arch.Stud. (Hons), M.Arch. at NMU, UCT, UFS, UJ, UKZN, UP and Wits
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Applied Science Architecture at UP
• Diploma, Advanced Diploma, M.Tech in Architectural Technology at DUT, NMU, TUT and UJ.

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government.
• architectural firms.
• building contractor and construction companies.
• research institutions.

Cities are centres of economic growth and play an important role in providing social and economic opportunities for urban communities. As urbanisation and associated demand increases, global societies are challenged by equitable and sustainable development. This is a particular challenge in a developing nation like South Africa. Environmental economics involves the study of the economic and financial value of the environment and conservation.

Environmental economists study the economic and financial valuation of natural resources from extraction, through value adding processes, use and waste returned to the environment. They investigate the implications of economic incentives for the environment and the use of natural resources in sustainable practices and environmental opportunities. They can conduct cost-benefit analyses of industrial activities and cost environmental impacts as well as develop cost-effective and sustainable recommendations based on research findings.

Environmental economists work mainly in an office environment and could also spend some time in client environments such as landfill sites, for example when consulting and advising stakeholders.

SKILLS

Environmental economists require a comprehensive knowledge of economic trends, patterns, practices and policies related to environmental concerns, and will also benefit from:

• strong mathematical and statistical skills
• extensive research competence
• excellent analytical skills in micro, meso and macroeconomic trends
• good verbal and written communication and presentation skills.

TASKS

• research impacts of environmental conservation initiatives and projects
• monitor and analyse market and environmental trends
• develop costing models and make recommendations for environmental policy and plans
• advise and provide reports to policymakers, industry and other stakeholders.

STUDIES

• B.Com., B.Com. (Hons), M.Com. in Economics at all universities
• B.Econ., B.Econ. (Hons), M.Econ. at RU and UWC
• B.A., B.A. (Hons), M.A. in Politics, Philosophy and Economics at NWU, SU, UCT, UJ, UKZN, UNISA, UP and Wits.

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government
• financial and banking institutions
• NGOs, community-based and development organisations and private consultancies
• research institutions.

Cities as hubs of intensive economic activity use vast amounts of electricity and water, produce large volumes of waste and require efficient infrastructure for the movement of goods, services and people. With increasing urbanisation, creative housing solutions are also required to maximise land use while minimising environmental impact. Environmental engineering involves designing construction methods, processes and outputs that minimise impacts on the natural environment.

Environmental engineers manage the implementation, coordination, monitoring, evaluation and reporting of projects related to construction, environmental impact assessments, natural resource management and pollution control. They research proposed or existing construction projects to determine potential environmental risk and impact, report findings and advise on mitigation measures. These engineers are also involved in the design of improvements, additions or new sustainable facilities or processes and are responsible for obtaining the necessary permits and updating standard operating procedures.

Environmental engineers collaborate with environmental scientists, urban and town planners, hazardous waste technicians and other engineers and specialists. They work between offices and specific project sites overseeing development and ensuring compliance.

SKILLS

Environmental engineers require a comprehensive knowledge of engineering principles and environmental regulations, processes and challenges. They will further benefit from:

• ability to apply engineering science and design
• logical analytical and problem-solving ability
• independent project management competence
• good written and verbal communication and presentation skills.

TASKS

• conduct research, assess and report on environmental impacts
• design and oversee the development of systems, processes and equipment for control, management or remediation of environmental quality
• provide engineering and technical support for environmental remediation
• report and advise on projects and procedures related to environmental impact.

STUDIES

• B.Sc.Eng. in Civil Engineering at UCT, UKZN and Wits
• B.Eng. in Civil Engineering at SU, UJ and UP
• Diploma, Advanced Diploma, M.Tech in Civil Engineering at CPUT, CUT, DUT, MUT, TUT, UNISA, VUT and WSU.

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government
• construction and mining organisations
• waste management companies
• NGOs, community-based and development organisations and private
• consultancies.
• research institutions.

Cities, centres of dense social and economic activity face many environmental health challenges, that impact people and the environment. This could include pollution of air and water, impacts of flooding, contaminated food sources, risks associated with the disposal of wastewater or the management of excessive waste. Environmental health concerns the identification, analysis and remediation of activities and risk that impact human, animal and environmental health.

Environmental health officers develop, enforce and evaluate environmental health policy, legislation and regulations. They investigate incidences and activities that pose health risks and develop and implement strategies and programmes to mitigate these. They can also develop educational programmes to inform individuals on health and safety matters. Some can also identify, evaluate and control air pollution sources, highlighting challenges and opportunities for its reduced impact.

Environmental health officers liaise between organisation managers and regulatory bodies sharing current and new regulations. They can work in an office environment and often travel to visit, sometimes harmful sites for inspection.

SKILLS

Environmental health officers require an in-depth knowledge and understanding of environmental health legislation, policy and compliance with regulations. They will additionally benefit from:

• competence to easily explain complex legislation and procedures
• keen attention to detail
• strong interpersonal and negotiation skills
• good verbal and written communication and presentation skills.

TASKS

• identify, test and report risk in the environment and workplace
• advise on methods to eliminate, prevent, control or reduce exposure to hazards
• develop, implement and review environmental pollution programmes
• implement educational programmes to minimise potential environmental risks.

STUDIES

• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Environmental Management at UFS, UJ, UNISA and UP
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Environmental Health at UP
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons) in Environmental Health at NMU and UJ
• Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Environmental Health at CPUT, CUT, MUT and TUT.

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government.
• mining and construction companies.
• all manufacturing and production companies, particularly food and
• beverage manufacturers.
• medical service providers.
• tourism accommodation providers.
• private consultancies.

The South African constitution enshrines the right of all people to an environment that is not harmful to health or well-being and one that is protected for current and future generations. This right devolves into various other laws intended to prevent environmental degradation and pollution, promote conservation and sustainable development, and enable sustainable access and use of natural resources that support livelihoods. Environmental law involves the application of the law to ensure human and environmental rights.

Environmental lawyers provide legal advice, prepare and draft legal documents and conduct negotiations on behalf of clients on matters associated with the law and the environment. They develop policies and engage in litigation that prevents further environmental damage, enforce environmental compliance and ensure that people have access to natural resources or are adequately compensated for any loss resulting from transgressions.

Environmental lawyers spend time between an office, travelling to sites of complaints and transgressions to gather further evidence and information and court for litigation. They can sometimes engage various stakeholders to obtain additional insight into environmental cases.

SKILLS

Environmental lawyers must have a detailed knowledge of human rights, environmental and administrative laws and understand legal and procedural requirements for environmental decision-making, coupled with:

• excellent legal research competence
• objective analytical ability and attention to detail
• strong networking and interpersonal skills
• excellent writing competence.

TASKS

• provide legal research and opinions on environmental matters
• compile evidence and interview clients, witnesses and persons of interest
• counsel and advise clients that seek environmental law input
• negotiate legal agreements and liaise between stakeholders.

STUDIES

• LLB., LLM. in Environmental Law at NWU, RU, UCT, UKZN, UL, UP, Wits and UWC

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government
• private practice law firms
• NGOs, civil society and advocacy agencies.

Urbanisation continues to intensify across cities of the world. This increases the demand for housing, infrastructure, transport, urban green spaces, consumer goods and adds a significant burden on waste and air quality management as some examples. Effective environmental planning and management is needed to create sustainable, inclusive and resilient cities. Environmental management has a key role to play in assessing, advising and guiding sustainable urban development, as well as supporting both urban and rural conservation and environmental planning.

Environmental managers plan, organise, direct, control and coordinate the development and implementation of environmental management systems for private, public and civic organisations. They identify and develop opportunities to alleviate environmental challenges in compliance with environmental legislation and ensure corporate sustainability. They also undertake environmental impact assessments and audits and develop and monitor environmental and sustainability initiatives.

Environmental managers oversee teams of technical, scientific and engineering staff. They can work between office environments analysing organisational processes and perform site visits to audit and observe organisational processes and performance.

SKILLS

Environmental managers require experience in implementing organisational environmental systems and a solid understanding of environmental impact, management, laws and regulations, coupled with:

• extensive research capability
• advanced data analysis and analytical thinking ability
• excellent interpersonal skills
• strong verbal and written communication and presentation skills

TASKS

• monitor, evaluate and report on an organisation's environmental performance
• plan, direct and coordinate environmental services and related work activities
• manage budgets, control expenditure to ensure efficient use of resources
• oversee the selection, training and performance of staff.

STUDIES

• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Environmental Management at UFS, UJ, UNISA and UP
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Environmental Science at NMU, RU, UCT, UJ, UKZN, UMP, UP, UWC and Wits
• Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Environmental Management at CPUT
• Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Environmental Science at TUT.

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government
• production and manufacturing companies
• conservation and environmental organisations
• power generation utilities
• private consultancies..

With increasing urbanisation, cities attract and host a large percentage of a country's population. With this concentrated social and economic activity, there is a need to better manage aspects of the environment such as air and water quality, the processing of large volumes of all forms of waste and managing urban amenities. Inspecting environmental practices helps to promote the healthy functioning of urban spaces by identifying environmental challenges and ensuring compliance with environmental laws and regulations.

Environmental practices inspectors examine businesses and industrial sites to ensure compliance with environmental laws and bylaws. They inspect permits and licenses and issue warnings for environmental transgressions. They can conduct follow up interviews with repeat offenders and report them to higher authorities. Some can also investigate the processes and functions of companies to check whether environmental systems and processes are functioning correctly and adhering to regulation levels.

Environmental practices inspectors work between an office environment, documenting information and travelling to sites to carry out inspections. Site inspections can be dangerous depending on the nature of activities where safety gear may have to be worn.

SKILLS

Environmental practices inspectors require comprehensive knowledge and be able to practically apply environmental laws and regulations. They will also benefit from:

• critical and analytical thinking ability
• keen attention to detail
• strong interpersonal skills
• good verbal and written communication skills.

TASKS

• inspect facilities and collect samples for testing
• prepare inspection records and produce and review compliance reports
• examine legitimacy of permits and licenses
• investigate health and safety complaints, determining the nature of a violation.

STUDIES

• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Environmental Science at NMU, RU, UCT, UJ, UKZN, UMP, UP, UWC and Wits
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Geography specialising in Environmental Studies at all universities
• LLB., LLM. in Environmental Law at NWU, RU, UCT, UKZN, UL, UP, Wits and UWC.

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government.

Over two thirds of South Africans live in cities. This spatial concentration of people, economic and social activities in cities increases the need for better planning, housing, green open spaces, economic activity, transport and waste processing amongst others to minimise environmental challenges and risks. Environmental remediation supports urban planning by using engineering strategies and processes to assist in the rehabilitation and prevention of environmental degradation.

Environmental remediation specialists analyse and modify new and existing environmental engineering technologies and apply them in the prevention, control and remediation of environmental challenges. In the development of sites, they conduct pre-assessment studies and recommend measures to prevent environmental impact. If environmental damage has occurred, they monitor and evaluate the site, provide feedback reports and design and implement remedial action plans. Some might develop systems for hazardous waste sites and water treatment facilities.

Environmental remediation specialists regularly collaborate with environmental scientists, hazardous waste specialists, engineers and experts in law and business. They work between an office environment and often travel to sites of investigation to conduct analyses.

SKILLS

Environmental remediation specialists need extensive knowledge and experience with environmental management and impact assessment techniques and processes and an understanding of engineering principles, along with:

• understanding of environmental legislation and standards
• ability to practically apply engineering and mapping principles
• strong analytical and problem-solving ability
• good report writing and communication skills.

TASKS

• monitor and evaluate programmes for operational effectiveness and compliance
• design and oversee the development of systems, processes and equipment
• provide engineering support for environmental remediation and litigation
• advise on rehabilitation and preventive programmes.

STUDIES

• B.Sc.Eng. in Civil Engineering at UCT, UKZN and Wits
• B.Eng. in Civil Engineering at SU, UJ and UP
• Diploma, Advanced Diploma, M.Tech in Civil Engineering at CPUT, CUT, DUT, NMU, TUT, UJ, UNISA, VUT and WSU.

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government
• engineering and environmental consultancies
• industrial processing and mining companies
• property development and construction companies
• waste management companies.