Completing a Masters of Engineering on Environmental Management sparked an interest in sustainability and the environment for George Mani. As Lead Environmental Engineer for the Etihad Rail Package 2S project, and being part of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) team, George is promoting environmental awareness and ensuring total compliance with the project’s environmental requirements.

Finding my Calling

I began my career as a Civil Engineer after completing a Bachelors and before embarking on a Masters in Environmental Management. I really enjoyed my Masters and that’s when I realised that a career in the environmental field was my calling.

I worked as Environmental Engineer for three well-known construction companies in United Arab Emirates (UAE), where I’m based, and was extremely lucky to be involved in various prestigious projects in Dubai & Abu Dhabi.

I’ve acquired a NEBOSH certificate in Environmental Management and, since joining Hitachi Rail at the beginning of this year, I’ve completed an ISO 14001 Lead Auditor course and IEMA foundation course in Environmental Management. I’ve also been an Associate member of IEMA since June 2021.

My advice to anybody looking to pursue an eco-career is to stay updated on global trends and to keep building on your knowledge – you’re never too old to learn!

Contributing to a sustainable economy

I’m Lead Environmental Engineer for Etihad Rail Package 2S, a project which will deliver the stage 2 package for European Train Control System (ETCS) level 2, telecoms and power supply on a new 650km-long freight line.

The new line will increase UAE freight volume by seven times contributing to a sustainable UAE economy.

On this project, Ecological training by an approved environmental consultant is given to all key personnel and green boxes are provided at all main and site offices to promote recycling. We also promote awareness through tool box talks, memos and environmental campaigns.

An environmental performance report is generated each month to ensure our operations take place in a way which minimises their environmental impacts.

The Future is Green

There is a paradigm shift globally towards a more sustainable world.

Companies everywhere are gradually adopting more eco-friendly business practices which I believe will gather pace over the coming years.

For us, the future is green so we must continually evolve if we want to thrive.

When sustainability is viewed as essential to a businesses progression, I believe you can create massive change.