Target 4

Achieve environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes, and significantly reduce their release to air, water and soil to minimize their adverse impacts on human health and the environment.

Could this be your career mission?

Below are employers you could work for, occupations they employ, and education and training programs to prepare you to achieve this target.

Employers

Community Environmental Groups: Address environmental concerns, including chemical safety and waste management.
Waste Reduction and Recycling Coalitions: Promote recycling, waste reduction, and responsible disposal practices in the community.
Health and Safety Advocacy Groups: May focus on educating the community about the proper handling and disposal of hazardous chemicals.
Environmental Education Centers: Provide education and awareness programs on environmentally friendly practices, including chemical and waste management.
Community Cleanup Initiatives: Volunteer groups that organize clean-up events to address local waste issues, including proper disposal of hazardous materials.
Neighborhood Sustainability Networks: Create sustainable and environmentally conscious communities, which may include efforts related to chemical and waste management.
Water Quality Protection Associations: Protect local water sources and address issues related to chemical runoff and water contamination.
Local Health Department Initiatives: May have initiatives or programs dedicated to educating the public about safe chemical practices and waste disposal.
Community Gardening and Agriculture Associations: May focus on organic and sustainable practices, including responsible chemical use and waste management.
Green Business Networks: Promote environmentally responsible business practices, including proper chemical storage, usage, and waste disposal.

Training

Environmental Science and Management Programs: Cover a broad range of environmental topics, including the study of chemicals and waste management, and often include practical applications.
Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response Training: Designed for workers involved in handling hazardous materials and responding to emergencies. It covers safety protocols, regulations, and proper disposal practices.
Occupational Health and Safety Training: Provides knowledge and skills related to creating safe working environments, including managing chemicals and waste safely.
Waste Management Certification Programs: Focus on the proper handling, transportation, and disposal of different types of waste, including hazardous materials.
Chemical Engineering Degrees: Provide a strong foundation for understanding chemical processes, safety protocols, and responsible chemical management.
Toxicology Training Programs: Equip individuals with the knowledge to assess and manage the toxicity of chemicals, which is crucial in responsible chemical management.
Environmental Compliance Training: Covers the regulatory frameworks related to environmental management, ensuring that individuals understand and adhere to relevant laws.
Sustainability and Environmental Management Programs: Focus on developing strategies for organizations to operate responsibly, including the management of chemicals and waste.
Wastewater Treatment Operator Certification: Provides specialized training in managing and treating water containing various pollutants, including chemicals.
Emergency Response Training: Prepares individuals to handle chemical spills, accidents, and other emergencies, emphasizing quick and effective response to minimize harm.

Occupations

Environmental Scientist: Study the impact of chemicals and waste on the environment, develop strategies for responsible management, and conduct research to find safer alternatives.
Hazardous Materials Specialists: Manage the handling, storage, and disposal of dangerous substances, ensuring compliance with regulations and safety standards.
Waste Management Specialists: Design, implement, and optimize waste disposal systems, focusing on sustainability and environmental impact.
Chemical Engineers: Develop processes for the safe production, use, and disposal of chemicals, with a focus on minimizing environmental harm.
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists: Create and implement safety programs to protect workers from the hazards associated with handling chemicals and waste.
Environmental Compliance Officers: Ensure organizations adhere to environmental regulations, especially those related to the management of chemicals and waste.
Toxicologists: Study the adverse effects of chemicals on living organisms, helping organizations understand and mitigate potential risks.
Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators: Manage and maintain wastewater treatment facilities, ensuring that chemicals and pollutants are removed from water before it is released into the environment.
Environmental Health Officers: Protect public health by monitoring and regulating various environmental factors, including the safe management of chemicals and waste.
Sustainability Managers: Develop and implement strategies to make organizations more environmentally responsible, including the responsible management of chemicals and waste.

Back to Goal 12 Targets

Achieve environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes, and significantly reduce their release to air, water and soil to minimize their adverse impacts on human health and the environment.

Could this be your career mission? Below are employers you could work for, occupations they employ, and education and training programs to prepare you to achieve this target.

Employers

Could this be your career mission?

Below are employers you could work for, occupations they employ, and education and training programs to prepare you to achieve this target.