Our declaration is rooted in the widespread consensus of international scientists and in the knowledge that we and our members can make a pivotal contribution towards the radical transitions now required.  

“IEMA was founded to transform the world to sustainability and its mission has never been so important or relevant as it is right now.The 2018 report from the IPCC1 and 2019 report from IPBES2 show that the current situation and future trajectory has catastrophic implications for global society and the environment. Government, business and society need to respond with urgent, transformative action to deliver systemic change within a very short timeframe. IEMA therefore reaffirms its commitment to addressing the issues and declares that there is a climate and environmental emergency. IEMA calls upon all organisations to respond with urgency and action.” Paul Leinster; Chair of IEMA Board.

Our declaration is rooted in the widespread consensus of international scientists and in the knowledge that we and our members can make a pivotal contribution towards the radical transitions now required.“International targets for emissions, conserving and restoring nature, and for achieving sustainability cannot be met by current trajectories. Global goals for 2030 and beyond can only be achieved through transformative changes.”IEMA Climate Change Policy and Engagement Lead, Nick Blyth.

Environment and sustainability professionals are uniquely positioned to respond to this emergency, making vital contributions within businesses,organisations and communities. Building on existing work, IEMA released its first position statement on climate change in 2012, identifying key policy calls and working with professionals to support change. The continuing and escalating emergency requires leadership at all levels, from government through to individuals. IEMA will support environment and sustainability professionals to rise to the challenge of transition. We will work with our members to support them in addressing this urgent, strategic need, and to support businesses and organisations through the rapid change now required.

IEMA provides professionals with unique networks where our members can share experience and mobilise change. IEMA appeals to every organisation to join it, by becoming carbon neutral in 2020, and to work progressively to transition operations towards zero carbon and sustainability.

“We want to see every IEMA professional, no matter where they are in their career, committing to take positive action to deal with the Climate and Environment Emergency and, to develop targets and goals to help them realise this ambition both in the workplace and at home. As environmental and sustainability practitioners we need to be ambassadors and to be leading by example.”Jonathan Foot, IEMA Fellow and Steering Group Chair for the IEMA Climate Change and Energy Network.

IEMA will act as an advocate on behalf of our members and convene others to influence policies, standards and frameworks that will support transition both in the UK and internationally.Read our Climate Change and Position Statement and Resources here

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