By Decire Gonzalez KC'S BLOG • • • • • 0 Comments

United States Infrastructure

Most of the infrastructure of the United States (US) was constructed in the nineteenth century. Various types of infrastructure include lock chambers, dams, levees, water pipes, sewage pipes, and bridges, with an estimated average life expectancy of 50 years. As the aging infrastructures’ quality deteriorates over time, it is critical that repairs and maintenance remain consistent in order to keep us safe.

Climate change is one of the most serious infrastructure challenges the US faces today, causing crumbling bridges and water systems as a result of unprecedented rainfall, floods, and heat waves. These failures have caused widespread damage throughout the US. Infrastructure built centuries ago was not designed for the environment we have today; therefore, it is critical that the US prioritizes and funds infrastructure on a national scale.

To save our infrastructure, we must all work together to address this long-term issue. The rising costs of materials will delay repairs, and pushing forward on critical infrastructure improvements would be the first step toward having funds to combat aging infrastructure. Working together to combat climate change will additionally slow the deterioration of infrastructure.

 

By Decire Gonzalez KC'S BLOG • • • • • • • • 0 Comments

Why is Environmental Engineering Important?

Environmental engineering is one of many methods used to mitigate environmental issues we are facing today.

Environmental engineering is a branch of engineering that concentrates on improving environmental quality. According to the American Academy of Environmental Engineers (AAEE), environmental engineering is defined as "the application of engineering principles to the management of the environment for the protection of human health, for the protection of nature's beneficial ecosystems, and for environment-related enhancement of the quality of human life." In other words, the main goal of environmental engineering is to protect humanity from negative environmental effects. Environmental engineering is a key tool to fight against climate change; this is done by using environmentally friendly materials and developing new materials that can adapt to climate change. For example, eco-concrete and eco-bricks are two environmentally friendly materials used by Environmental Engineers.

Some of the main focuses of environmental engineering include air pollution management, water supply and treatment, and wastewater treatment and management, the benefits of which include easily available drinking water, preventing the spread of waterborne diseases with effective sanitation systems, and monitoring air pollution. Focusing on these areas allows mankind to maintain a much healthier quality of life than would otherwise be the case.

KC understands the importance of fighting against environmental issues. KC’s engineering staff includes a wide range of experienced and talented personnel encompassing all our main areas of service, and includes dedicated civil and environmental engineers experienced in drainage, stormwater, drinking water, and wastewater solutions. To learn more about KC’s services, please visit our Services tab.