The 1970s brought an era of ongoing globalization and heightened awareness to environmental issues. The decade’s energy crises highlighted the world’s dependence on oil, fueling desires to explore alternative energy production. The establishment of Earth Day and the passage of the National Environmental Protection Act in the United States brought issues of environmental preservation to the public consciousness.
At this time, Louis Berger began to establish its environmental practice. The firm provided services to clients in coal mine cleanup, water quality analysis, ecosystem preservation, disaster recovery and pollution remediation. In addition to developing its environmental practice, the firm continued expanding its work around the globe with projects in Brazil, Sudan, Sweden, the Philippines, Haiti and Cote d’Ivoire.
- 1970: Louis Berger oversaw the feasibility studies, designs and construction of a 400-kilometer stretch of Brazil’s Trans-Amazonian Highway between Jacareacanga and Prainha Nova.
- 1971: The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Resources selected Louis Berger to plan, design and manage a comprehensive program to restore land and water damaged by years of coal mining.
- 1972: Louis Berger provided technical assistance and construction supervision for the rehabilitation of more than 200 kilometers of roads following major flooding in Luzon, Philippines.
- 1976: Louis Berger completed a national transport study for Haiti, creating a five-year plan for improving the country’s road, port and airport networks, as well as facilitating economic development.
- 1979: Louis Berger conducted an ecosystem study for the 4,640- acre Crosswicks Creek tidal wetlands.