Chair of IEMA Council scoops prestigious national award

Professor Martin Bigg – Chair of IEMA’s Strategic Advisory Council and Professor of Environmental Technology Innovation at the University of the West of England, Bristol, has been awarded Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv) of the Year by the Society for the Environment (SocEnv).

Receiving his award from Sarah Winckless, international Olympic rowing medallist and Chef de Mission for Team GB at the 2014 Youth Olympic Games, Martin said:

“I’m delighted to have received this award from Society for the Environment. As a passionate advocate of high environmental and sustainability standards, it’s a great honour to receive such a prestigious accolade.”

Martin Bigg won the Chartered Environmentalist of the Year Award for his passion and enthusiasm for environmental and sustainability skills, and for his role in helping Bristol achieve European Green Capital for 2015.

Tim Balcon, Chief Executive of the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment said:

“This award is a reflection of Martin’s longstanding contribution to the environment and sustainability profession. We’re delighted that his commitment has been recognised by the Society”.

About Martin Bigg

Martin Bigg has an impressive record of achievement in environmental sustainability. From working in the chemical industry then Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Pollution (HMIP) on the development of the UK’s integrated pollution control regime, through to Head of Industry and Waste Regulation at the Environment Agency which included leading on the development and implementation of the Industrial Emissions Directive, to Chair of the Bristol Green Capital Partnership and leading Bristol’s success as in being awarded European Green Capital for 2015.....Martin’s passion to protect human health and the environment shines through in his commitment, enthusiasm and leadership skills.

Martin is passionate about setting and maintaining high professional standards. He embodies this himself through an MSc in Environmental Regulation, a BSc and PhD in Chemistry, Chartered Environmentalist and Chartered Scientist, and Fellowships of the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment and the Royal Society of Chemistry. At the Environment Agency, he took on the head of business role responsible for the oversight and competency of 500 staff. As Chair of IEMA’s Professional Standards Committee, and more recently Chair of IEMA’s Council, his experience in developing and setting high professional standards has been shared widely– encouraging those who aspire to a career in environment and sustainability to develop their personal competencies and capabilities.

Martin is currently Professor of Environmental Technology Innovation and Director of Environmental Technologies iNet. The Environmental Technologies iNet is a major supporter of innovation in South West England. It works with enterprising businesses to develop innovative environmental technologies in the construction, transport, waste and renewable energy industries.