Historically the role of the environmental science consulting professional has been to evaluate, analyze, and inform interested parties of any potential harm or impact to the environment stemming from a land disturbance activity. The selected environmental science firm employs a scientist who initially conducts environmental analysis by selecting environmental factors to evaluate. An environmental analysis, or environmental screening, is a strategic tool that is employed to find all internal and external elements that may affect the proposed development’s future performance. Environmental analysis begins at the outset in the process and assists the site developer with potential influences that might provide either an opportunity or threat to project success. The environmental science professional provides the client with a forecast of the future by identifying potential threats that could prevent the developer from achieving business objectives. 

The environmental consultant utilizes a process consisting of the following steps in conducting the analysis: identify potential environmental impact issues through site selection; undertake extensive desktop research through the review of existing and/or previous documentation, and mapping study; conduct site walkover (s), collect and record field data; and finally interact with regulatory personnel to asset the extent of early government involvement.

The potential for project impact on existing natural resources could quickly escalate concerns regarding the project going forward. The presence of jurisdictional wetlands, waters of the US, sensitive aquatic sites, and/or threatened/endangered species critical habitat are just a few of these concerns. The environmental professional is well trained to focus resources on making these initial assessments and further analyzing potential risk. Future permit action associated with the clean water and/or wetland protection acts from either/or the state and federal government is pre-determined here.

A second environmental area of initial concern is the presence/absence of potential hazardous materials in association with past proposed property activity. Previous land use is then analyzed by the environmental professional, typically a professional with a geological background. Federal laws CAA, CERCLA, and/or RECRA are assessed to clarify whether field samples of air, water, and/or soils.

Overall, the professional environmental scientist’s role is crucial to the overall success of the proposed development. This does not change over time. The environmental professional will most likely always play a significant role in guiding the developer and his/her team through the initial phases of determining property use viability.