I will introduce the field of environmental engineering to the class as a framework for addressing these water issues. Environmental engineering is the branch of engineering that is concerned with protecting people from the effects of adverse environmental effects, such as pollution, as well as improving environmental quality. They use the principles of engineering, soil science, biology, and chemistry to develop solutions to environmental problems and are involved in efforts to improve recycling, waste disposal, public health, and water and air pollution control. The practice of environmental engineering dates to the dawn of civilization. Ever since groups of people began living in semi-permanent settlements, they have had to deal with the challenges of providing clean water and disposing of solid waste and sewage. With the growth of cities and the advent of large-scale farming and manufacturing, people have also had to worry about air quality and soil contamination.
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