Huang developed innovative optimization approaches to tackle complexities of environmental risk management that are beyond direct human reasoning. His work led to a new field of inexact environmental systems analysis uniquely useful for multi-stakeholder risk management practices. His findings revealed various complexities in environmental systems and obstacles hindering sustainable regional development. They were introduced by multiple international development agencies to a number of countries and frequently used by peers/stakeholders, bringing about enormous socio-economic benefits. His contributions were disseminated through publication of over 900 journal papers (H-index 60 in Science Citation Index), training of over 100 graduate students, and special conference panels/sessions devoted to his works.