From engineering needs to scientific questions: bridging environmental engineering and science

Abstract

Environmental engineering has always been closely connected with practical engineering needs. However, advancing the discipline requires not only addressing these needs but also identifying the fundamental scientific questions embedded within engineering practice. At the 6th Youth Forum on Frontiers of Environmental Science and Engineering, we organized a critical inquiry forum on the session of Environmental Engineering and Intelligent Equipment to discuss how evolving engineering demands, driven by industrial transformation, artificial intelligence, increasingly complex systems, and emerging industries, create new opportunities for scientific discovery. We further propose approaches for transforming engineering needs into scientific questions by focusing on critical system stages, exploring underlying scientific principles, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. For early-career researchers, strengthening university–industry collaboration, building a strong foundation in basic science, and engaging in interdisciplinary research are essential for identifying meaningful scientific questions and translating scientific advances into engineering innovation. Establishing a continuous feedback loop between engineering and science will be critical for advancing environmental engineering in the era of technological and industrial transformation.

Graphical abstract

Keywords

Environmental engineering / Engineering needs / Scientific questions / Engineering practice / Interdisciplinary collaboration / Artificial intelligence

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Higher Education Press 2026