Civil engineering is the oldest branch of engineering.
The Roman aqueducts and the pyramids of Egypt are early examples of civil engineering works. Today, civil engineering encompasses a wide range of projects and activities for the welfare and safety of the general public. Civil engineers are responsible for the planning, design, and construction of such projects as bridges, buildings, highways, traffic control systems, and facilities for the treatment of water supplies and waste water. Civil engineers are also involved in solving the problems of hazardous waste and air pollution. Specialized areas within the discipline of civil engineering include structural engineering, construction engineering, transportation engineering, environmental engineering, water resources engineering, and foundation engineering.