If we harness the expertise of the profession we can find a way forwards.
What will the world look like for our profession next year? Or two years after that? Now that the trigger has been pulled on Brexit things will start to change in the UK and that will continue throughout the negotiations to pull away from the EU.
Now the pace, extent and impact of that change is unknown. No country with an economy comparable to the UK’s has before left the EU. If negotiations go well, and the deal to depart is satisfactory and the Great Repeal Bill does its job of keeping the most effective and forward-thinking legislation, Brexit could be a new dawn for the economy and reinvigorate the UK’s relationship with its continental neighbours.
Whatever happens over the next few years, it is important that environment and sustainability professionals continue to do what they do best – make things better. That basic ethos is what brings so many to the profession and staying connected to that core motivation is now more important than ever. That is why it is good to know that so many are not deterred by the political shifts occurring around the world.
According to IEMA’s recent State of the Profession survey, 43% of members are optimistic about overcoming the challenges ahead and want to play a part in tackling them (the environmentalist, March). A further 35% plan to carry on making a difference, but admittedly are less sure about the impact their efforts will have.
Unfortunately, 17% feel demoralised by events, which is understandable but not inevitable. In that same poll, many reported that their top concern for this year is to keep up to date with changing laws and regulations – again, totally understandable and let’s work together to stay on top of the changes.
There’s a lot of work to do, and it may be tough – although, it might not be; we just don’t know. Nonetheless, IEMA will ensure you have every chance to not only stay up to date with regulatory changes through updates and events, but that members also have the opportunity, through surveys and consultations, to shape the outcome, and challenge the government on its plans. We will also make sure the collective voice of the profession is heard in the media.
Essentially, we need to harness the passion, enthusiasm and expertise of members to inform on the best way forward for environment and sustainability to keep making things better.
