When it comes to protecting the environment while maintaining progress and development, environmental consultants play a critical role. But what exactly is an environmental consultant, and what do they do? Whether you are a business owner, a property developer, or a concerned citizen, understanding the importance of environmental consulting can help you make informed decisions. At PM Environmental, we are often asked about the scope of work environmental consultants handle, when you might need one, and what value they bring to a project. Let’s take a closer look.

What is an Environmental Consultant?

An environmental consultant is a professional who provides expert advice on environmental issues. Their primary role is to assess, prevent, and solve environmental problems for businesses, governments, and private individuals. Environmental consultants blend science, engineering, law, and management to offer comprehensive solutions that ensure compliance with environmental regulations and help safeguard natural resources.

Typically, environmental consultants have backgrounds in fields like environmental science, geology, engineering, biology, or chemistry. Many also possess certifications such as Professional Geologist (PG) or Professional Engineer (PE), depending on their specialty.

What Does an Environmental Consultant Do?

Environmental consultants wear many hats depending on the type of project and the client’s needs. Some of the core services they provide include:

1. Site Assessments

Environmental consultants conduct Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs) to identify potential or existing environmental contamination liabilities. If contamination is suspected, they may follow up with a Phase II ESA, involving sampling of soil, groundwater, or building materials.

2. Regulatory Compliance and Permitting

Consultants help businesses navigate complex local, state, and federal environmental regulations. They assist in obtaining necessary permits for operations such as air emissions, wastewater discharge, or land development projects.

3. Environmental Remediation

When contamination is discovered, environmental consultants develop and oversee cleanup plans to restore a site to acceptable environmental standards. They work closely with regulatory agencies to ensure compliance throughout the process.

4. Environmental Due Diligence

When companies buy, sell, or lease property, environmental consultants provide due diligence services to assess risks and liabilities, protecting the financial interests of the parties involved.

5. Risk Assessment

They conduct human health and ecological risk assessments to evaluate potential hazards posed by contaminants, helping guide decision-making about site usage or remediation needs.

6. Sustainability and Environmental Management Systems

Some consultants specialize in helping companies implement sustainability initiatives or develop Environmental Management Systems (EMS) aligned with standards like ISO 14001.

7. Natural Resource Management

Environmental consultants may help manage wetlands, forests, or wildlife habitats, providing guidance on conservation, restoration, or responsible use.

When Do You Need an Environmental Consultant?

Hiring an environmental consultant can be crucial at several points during a project’s lifecycle. Here are common scenarios where you might need one:

• Property Transactions: Before purchasing or selling commercial or industrial property, to uncover potential environmental risks that could affect the property’s value.
• Development Projects: Before construction, especially for large-scale developments that could impact local ecosystems or groundwater supplies.
• Contamination Discovery: When contamination is found or suspected on a property.
• Regulatory Compliance: When applying for permits, responding to agency inspections, or managing environmental reporting requirements.
• Litigation Support: When facing legal disputes involving environmental claims.
• Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability: When developing corporate sustainability strategies or ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting.

Failing to engage a qualified consultant at the right time can result in costly fines, project delays, or damage to your organization’s reputation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Environmental Consultants

What industries use environmental consultants?

Virtually every industry can benefit from environmental consulting, including:

• Real estate development
• Oil and gas
• Manufacturing
• Agriculture
• Transportation
• Government and public works
• Retail and commercial businesses

What is the difference between a Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessment?

A Phase I ESA involves a review of public records, site inspection, and interviews to identify potential environmental concerns. If recognized environmental conditions (RECs) are found, a Phase II ESA is recommended, which includes sampling and laboratory analysis to confirm contamination. We wrote an article explaining the differences in more detail: Phase I vs. Phase II ESAs.

Are environmental consultants only needed for large projects?

Not at all. Even small businesses and private individuals may need environmental consulting services. For example, a gas station operator looking to remove underground storage tanks or a family wanting to purchase a lakeside cabin may require environmental due diligence.

Small-scale projects like residential developments near wetlands, minor renovations on historic properties, or agricultural improvements may still encounter environmental challenges. Environmental consultants help navigate these challenges no matter the size of the project.

Can an environmental consultant help with sustainability initiatives?

Yes. Many consultants now specialize in sustainability planning. They can help companies:

• Assess energy usage and recommend improvements.
• Design waste reduction and recycling programs.
• Advise on sustainable building materials and construction practices.
• Prepare reports and metrics for ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) disclosures.

Working with an environmental consultant on sustainability initiatives not only benefits the environment but also enhances a company’s brand image, attracts investors, and can lead to operational cost savings.

How do environmental consultants work with regulatory agencies?

Environmental consultants often serve as intermediaries between clients and government agencies. They:

• Submit permit applications.
• Prepare and deliver technical reports.
• Coordinate site inspections.
• Develop and negotiate remediation plans.
• Ensure that ongoing reporting requirements are met.

Having a knowledgeable consultant advocate for your project can help avoid delays, ensure smoother communications with agencies, and lead to faster, more favorable outcomes.

Why Partner With PM Environmental?

At PM Environmental, we have a proven track record of helping clients navigate environmental challenges effectively and responsibly. Our team of seasoned professionals offers comprehensive services, from site assessment and remediation to sustainability consulting and regulatory compliance support.

What sets us apart is our:

• Deep industry expertise across multiple sectors.
• Client-focused approach tailored to your specific needs.
• Regional knowledge of regulatory environments.
• Commitment to practical, cost-effective solutions.

We understand that every project is unique, and we take pride in delivering results that help our clients achieve their business objectives while protecting the environment.

An environmental consultant is not just a regulatory guide; they are a key ally in managing environmental risks, maintaining compliance, and promoting sustainable practices. Whether you’re starting a new property venture, facing environmental challenges, or seeking to strengthen your company’s sustainability efforts, partnering with a knowledgeable consultant is one of the smartest investments you can make.

If you have questions about environmental consulting or need assistance with a project, PM Environmental is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your goals and protect your interests.