Transitions - Sustainable Design: The Science of Sustainability and Green Engineering - page 87

code's most recent amendment on November 10, 1996, incorporated the princi-
ple of sustainable development. As a subdiscipline of civil engineering, much of
the environmental engineering mandate is encompassed under engineering pro-
fessional codes in general and more specifically in the ASCE. The code mandates
four principles that engineers abide by to uphold and to advance the “integrity,
honor, and dignity of the engineering profession:”
1. Using their knowledge and skill for the enhancement of human welfare and
the environment
2. Being honest and impartial and serving with fidelity the public, their em-
ployers, and clients
3. Striving to increase the competence and prestige of the engineering pro-
fession
4. Supporting the professional and technical societies of their disciplines
The code further articulates seven fundamental canons:
1. Engineers shall hold paramount the safety, health, and welfare of the public
and shall strive to comply with the principles of sustainable development in
the performance of their professional duties.
2. Engineers shall perform services only in areas of their competence.
3. Engineers shall issue public statements only in an objective and truthful
manner.
4. Engineers shall act in professional matters for each employer or client as
faithful agents or trustees, and shall avoid conflicts of interest.
5. Engineers shall build their professional reputation on the merit of their
services and shall not compete unfairly with others.
6. Engineers shall act in such a manner as to uphold and enhance the honor,
integrity, and dignity of the engineering profession.
7. Engineers shall continue their professional development throughout their
careers, and shall provide opportunities for the professional development of
those engineers under their supervision.
The first canon is a direct mandate for the incorporation of green design prin-
ciples. The remaining canons prescribe and proscribe activities to ensure trust.
It is important to note that the code applies to all civil engineers, not just envi-
ronmental engineers. Thus, even a structural engineer must “hold paramount”