Problem
A licensed engineer discovers that her company's manufacturing process produces waste that is released into the environment. The toxins in the waste are 25% above the regulated levels. She informs her superiors only to be told that they are aware of the problem but the cost to rectify the problem will be too expensive and the company would have to shut down for a two year period. The resulting shutdown would lead to massive layoffs of employees. The company is the biggest employer in the town, employing about 40% of the population.
What is the engineer's duty to her employer?
What is the engineer's duty to the environment and the public?
Which duty is paramount?