Graham Mustard

Environmental Staff Scientist

• B.S. in Geography, University of Sunderland, United Kingdom, 2012
• M.S. Geographic Information and Climate Change, Swansea University, United Kingdom, 2013

Years of Professional Experience: 6

Areas of Expertise: Solid waste and soil sampling, waste characterization and classification techniques, persistent organic pollutants, PFAS, household and medical waste incineration technology

What motivates you to work in the Environmental Field?

I grew up in the northeast of England where parts of the landscape are scarred by the history of mining, which ended many decades ago. Those abandoned mines often discharge lead, arsenic and a range of other nasty compounds into local rivers killing fish and other aquatic life. The mines also drain onto beaches leaving coal residue and coloring the water an orange-red shade. When I was studying at University, I was lucky to have the opportunity to research mine-related pollution and work on development of a clean-up program which improved river water quality in Wales. That experience shaped my career as I took a lot of pride in helping to preserve the local environment. After stepping out of University research, I delved into environmental consultancy and spent just over 5 years investigating waste of all shapes and sizes, from carpets and cables to ash and wastewater from sewage treatment (the smell isn't one quickly forgotten).  The research influenced regulation in the UK and helped companies correctly manage waste hazardous to the environment and human health. Following a move to the US in late 2024 to be with my lovely wife, I am excited to be involved in projects which protect our landscape, drinking water and air.