Name: Chun Yin FuRegistration Number: 64325453Session: Edinburgh – Spring 2014Written ExerciseQuestion (2)Discuss how engineers can contribute to environmental protection and the prudent use and reuse of natural resources as part of development sustainable without negatively affecting economic growth?IntroductionCivil engineers create infrastructure that supports civilized life and improves the quality of life of human beings. However, infrastructure development also leads to negative impacts on the environment and consumes the Earth's limited natural resources. The concept of sustainability therefore becomes very important in the decision-making process of engineers. The United Nations has defined sustainable development as “development that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”. In this regard, engineers play an important role in finding the balance between environmental, economic and social aspects throughout the implementation of a project, from planning, options evaluation, detailed design, construction, operation and maintenance phase. In the following paragraphs I will discuss how engineers can contribute to sustainable development in the above-mentioned stages. Planning Phase A well-planned project is essential to minimize conflicts of the proposed works with the natural environment. During the initial phase of a project, the designer should take into account possible unwanted environmental effects when choosing engineering solutions or selecting sites. The selected scheme should not only meet functional requirements, but also ensure environmental protection. For example, the …… half of the document … the effectiveness of mitigation measures in the operation and maintenance phase. For example, for the Express Rail Link project in Hong Kong, one of the ventilation shafts is located in Mai Po, very close to the habitats of many rare bird species. Bird surveys are carried out regularly throughout project cycles to ensure mitigation measures are effective. Conclusion Although the implementation of civil engineering projects will benefit the community, the associated environmental impacts should never be overlooked. Engineers play an important role to minimize environmental impact from project planning to maintenance phase and to balance it with social and economic factors. If engineers perform their professional duties effectively, sustainable development can be achieved without compromising the economic growth of society.