At some point, all of us encounter an environmental problem that we need to solve using our own skills and intelligence. In fact, it is due to poor problem solving that many relationships or business fail. Therefore, having a set of good environmental problem solving skills at our disposal will make some of these problems significantly easier to resolve.

Any problem you can think of will have two features in common: goals and barriers.

Goals can be anything you want to achieve. If you are hungry, for example, your goal is probably to eat something. If there is no barrier to achieving this goal, then there is no problem. An example of a barrier to the aforementioned goal could be not having any food in your house.

With this understanding, we can better understand how to approach the problem in question.

Important Stages Of Effective Environmental Problem Solving

#1: Identify The Problem

Recognize that there is a problem, identify its nature and define the problem as thoroughly as you can. While this step might sound a bit obvious, it forces you to think more about the problem you face and analyze how best to approach it.

#2: Structure The Problem

Structuring the problem is about finding as much information as you can about that problem and increasing your understanding of it. Analyze these facts to help you build a more comprehensive picture of the barriers you face to achieving your goals. This step is perhaps not necessary for simple problems, but imperative for complex problems.

#3: Searching For Solutions

After you have gathered information in the first to phases of the environmental problem solving process, you can then begin thinking about ways you can solve the problem you are presented with. This often happens in the form of a brainstorming session in large group environments—it can be helpful to get a wide variety of opinions and potential solutions.

#4: Make A Decision

After carefully analyzing all the possible solutions and courses of action you can take, it is time to determine which solution is the best for your scenario. Some solutions you have presented might not have been possible, others might have a lower risk.

#5: Implement The Solution

Carry out your chosen solution to the best of your abilities. If additional problems arise as a result of the implementation of your chosen solution, you may need to repeat some steps of this process.

This is a simple yet effective framework for solving most types of problems you encounter in your workplace or in your daily life. Once you have completed the process, be sure to check to make sure it was successful, and get feedback from people affected by any changes that occurred as a result of the implementation phase.

The team at Soil Advocates has the experience & expertise to help solve your environmental and soil related problems. We would be happy to discuss what options are best for you.