As an ecologist or an environmentalist, would study the plants and animals in a particular place, and how they relate to each other and their environment (known as biodiversity). The principle of sustainability are at the heart of their work - balancing the needs of the environment against the pressure to develop the land.

As an environmentalist, who usually specialize in a particular habitat type, such as marine or coastal areas, or study specific animal or plant species. Their work may include:
· Carry out fieldwork, data collection and recording of plants and animals
Investigate the impact of human activities on habitats, such as housing, road building and intensive farming

· Models of building computer to predict the effects of development or changes in climate on ecological systems
· Evidence plant samples in the laboratory, for example, to investigate the effects of air pollution on the growth
· Develop and present research results at conferences
· Increase awareness of environmental issues by organizing school and community education programs
· Restoration of the land at the end of its industrial life, such as open pit mines and quarries
· Incidence pollution monitoring, such as chemical spills in waterways
· Advise and enforcing legal rules, for example, laws on protected species
To act as an expert witness for public inquiries
· Management of wildlife conservation areas, forests and meadows.

Key Skills
· A thorough understanding of how ecosystems work
· A methodical approach to work
· The ability to gather and interpret data
· An understanding of plant and animal classification systems (taxonomy)
· A knowledge of environmental policies and legislation
· The ability to maintain and develop client relationships
· An objective outlook and good negotiating skills
· Good presentation and report writing skills
· Project management skills