An Institute of Water member is among the latest professionals to join the Society for the Environment (SocEnv) register, helping it pass 9,000 current environmental registrants for the first time.
Maria Woods CEnv, Senior Environmental Engineer at Thames Water, achieved Chartered Environmentalist status through the Institute of Water and is one of many members strengthening professional standards across the water sector.
Maria said:
“Becoming a Chartered Environmentalist is an exciting milestone for me. Joining this community means connecting with like-minded people and I look forward to sharing knowledge, ideas and working together to create lasting positive change for our environment.”
Gabrielle Mandell, Chief Executive of the Institute of Water, commented:
“Maria’s achievement reflects the dedication, skill and vision our members bring to protecting and enhancing the water environment. Professional registration through SocEnv is more than a mark of competence, it is a celebration of commitment to excellence, to ethical practice, and to making a tangible difference for our environment. We are proud to support our members on their registration journey.”
Phil Underwood, Engagement Manager at SocEnv, added:
“Whilst reaching a milestone number of environmental professionals with externally verified competence doesn’t immediately solve the challenges that face us, it is adding to the roadmap of change and a signal of intent.”
As a licensed member for SocEnv, the Institute of Water provides one of the professional routes to becoming a CEnv, REnvP or REnvTech and continues to support members working towards registration. Further details on registering through the Institute of Water are available at https://instituteofwater.org.uk/environment-registration/
Today, on World Environment Day, we are reminded of our shared responsibility to protect the planet that sustains us all.
This year’s theme, #BeatPlasticPollution highlights one of the most urgent environmental challenges of our time. Plastic pollution has reached every corner of the Earth, polluting our precious rivers, lakes, and oceans. Addressing this crisis requires collective action across all sectors, and the water industry plays a vital role.
Water sustains all life, and protecting it from plastic pollution is a responsibility we all share. At IWater, one of our core values is sustainability, and we are proud to support our members who are professionals driving positive change every day.
If you’re a skilled, practicing environmentalist using today to reflect on what more you can do for the planet, consider becoming a registered environmentalist with IWater. We are licensed to award professional registrations on behalf of the Society for the Environment, ensuring we adhere to the highest environmental standards.
Natalie Akroyd CEnv, Vice President Environment at IWater and Director of Quality and Environment at South Staffs and Cambridge Water, states:
“The environment deserves the very best people working to restore it, protect it, and advocate for it. I know we have those people in the water industry, and professional registration is the best way to recognise and validate the skills and experience of those people.
As Vice President, I want to help everyone in our industry see the part they’re already playing in looking after our environment, and support them to get the professional recognition they have earned.”
We thank our members and volunteers for sharing our continued commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Together, we can all join the fight to beat plastic pollution and safeguard the water environment for generations to come.
The Institute of Water (IWater) is thrilled to announce the successful renewal of its licence to award professional registrations on behalf of the Society for the Environment (SocEnv).
Following a rigorous review process, IWater’s systems, procedures, and dedication to environmental professionalism have been recognized and commended.
IWater holds the prestigious authority to award three professional registrations in the environment field:
- Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv)
- Registered Environmental Practitioner (REnvP)
- Registered Environmental Technician (REnvTech)
These registrations are designed to enable structured professional progression, offering an opportunity for individuals to advance their careers and expertise—from REnvTech to REnvP and ultimately to CEnv. Each step reflects a growing commitment to sustainability, environmental responsibility, and professional excellence.
Recognition from the Review Panel
The recent licence review highlighted IWater’s continuous improvement and collaboration. Geoff Atkins, Head of Licence Delivery and Quality at SocEnv, shared his thoughts on the review:
“Whilst IWater have always had good systems and procedures in place, at the recent licence review, the Review Panel were impressed by further improvements made since the last review. Also impressive was the engagement IWater has with our other Licensed Members and with the SocEnv team. The Review Panel appreciated the openness with which IWater approached the review and were delighted to recommend IWater licences be renewed for up to a further five years.
I look forward to continuing to work closely with IWater colleagues, registrants, and members to progress environmental professionalism across the water sector, and welcoming many new CEnv, REnvP and REnvTech IWater members very soon.”
Commitment to Environmental Professionalism
IWater’s commitment to fostering professionalism across the water sector is core to our purpose. Rob Bradley CEnv, Professional Standards Manager at IWater, remarked:
“As befits the diversity of our membership spanning all areas of the water sector across the UK, all of those who hold an environmental registration prove their commitment to upholding these high standards. As well as holding CEnv since 2013 myself, every part of support we provide to our members extends into the communities and companies they work with, ensuring all of us are trusted to act to the best of our abilities in defence of our environments.”
Natalie Akroyd CEnv, Vice President Environment at IWater, remarked:
“We are delighted to have our licence renewed. We know how critical environmental professional development and registration is to our industry, now more than ever, and environmental registration is an increasing area of focus for our members. The positive feedback from SocEnv on their findings during the review process is recognition of the hard work that Rob and the team have put in to improving our approach and processes to ensure our members can progress their professional development with the Institute.”
Looking Ahead
As IWater continues to support its members in achieving professional registration, the renewed licence reinforces our dedication to advancing environmental standards within the water industry. By fostering collaboration, promoting excellence, and enabling progression, IWater is proud to help shape a sustainable future for the sector.
We’re excited to welcome many new Chartered Environmentalists, Registered Environmental Practitioners, and Registered Environmental Technicians into our growing family. Together, we will continue to make a positive impact on the environment and the water sector.
The Society for the Environment (SocEnv) has officially opened nominations for the prestigious 2025 SocEnv Awards! This is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate and recognise environmental professionals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovation, and leadership in their field.
About the Awards
The SocEnv Awards highlight the achievements of individuals who have gone above and beyond to protect, preserve, or enhance the environment. Two highly sought-after awards are up for grabs:
- 2025 Environmental Professional of the Year – Recognising outstanding individuals who have made a significant impact through their environmental work.
- 2025 Rising Star – Celebrating early-career professionals who are making a difference and showing great promise in their field.
Why Nominate?
These awards provide an excellent platform to inspire future generations of environmental professionals, showcase the incredible work happening across the sector, and highlight the skills and achievements of those striving to make a difference.
Previous winners have spoken highly about the recognition that comes with the award. Adrian Mill CEnv, the reigning 2024 Environmental Professional of the Year, shared how winning the award has boosted his professional profile:
“I’m proud to tell anyone who’ll listen that I have won the award. It has led to more speaking opportunities, raising the profile of both my companies and the environmental causes I’m passionate about.”
Similarly, Claire Wansbury CEnv, the 2023 Environmental Professional of the Year, reflected on the importance of recognition in the industry:
“It is easy to take what we do day to day for granted, but we can all make a real difference. I encourage anyone considering applying or nominating a colleague to do so—it’s a simple process and allows us to celebrate the efforts and achievements of our profession.”
How to Nominate
Nominations are open to Chartered Environmentalists (CEnv), Registered Environmental Practitioners (REnvP), and Registered Environmental Technicians (REnvTech). However, nominations can be submitted by anyone, including self-nominations.
To ensure inclusivity, SocEnv is once again accepting video nominations, making it easier than ever for professionals from diverse backgrounds to apply.
Key Details:
- Nominations Open: Tuesday 25th February 2025
- Deadline to Submit: Tuesday 15th April 2025
- Cost: Free to enter
Visit the SocEnv Awards page to learn more, download nomination guidelines, and submit your entry.
Now is the time to gain well-deserved recognition for yourself or a deserving colleague. Submit your nomination today and be part of celebrating excellence in the environmental sector!
The Institute of Water (IWater) is proud to participate in Chartered Week 2025, the first in an ongoing annual national awareness week dedicated to celebrating and promoting the role of professional registration and its impact on society today.
This year’s theme, “Celebrating Trusted Professionals,” highlights the dedication, expertise, and integrity of those who achieve chartered status and other professional accreditations—key qualities that our family of UK water professionals embody.
About Professional Registration
Professional registration is a recognition of knowledge, experience, and professionalism, demonstrating an individual’s commitment to maintaining and enhancing their skills through continuing professional development (CPD).
IWater’s approach to Professional Registration is unique and supportive, reflecting our role as seeking to better equip our members to do their day jobs, advocate for the sector and improve the environment and lives of their communities.
As the only professional body licensed to offer nine grades of professional registration across Engineering, Environment, and Science we provide tailored support to help individuals achieve and maintain their status.
Why Chartership Matters
Achieving chartered status is a mark of excellence, demonstrating an individual’s commitment to continuous learning, ethical practice, and leadership within their field. It strengthens trust within the industry and ensures that professionals are equipped to tackle the challenges facing the water sector today and in the future.
Get Involved
To mark Chartered Week 2025, the Institute of Water will be:
- Sharing insights from our Chartered Members about their journeys and achievements
- Highlighting the history and evolution of our professional registration offering in the water sector
- Providing guidance and resources to help members take the next step in their careers
Water professionals at all stages of their careers are encouraged to get involved by following the conversation on social media using #CharteredWeek and exploring our online resources.
For more information on professional registration and how to start your journey, visit: https://instituteofwater.org.uk/professional-registration/
After nine years of outstanding service as the Institute of Water’s Vice President Environment, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Professor Ian Parker CEnv FIWater for his dedication to championing commitment to the environment and the development of our people.
As Ian transitions to a broader role on the Board, we are delighted to welcome Natalie Akroyd CEnv, Director of Quality and Environment at South Staffs Water and Past Chair of IWater, as our new Vice President Environment!
Natalie brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to this role, and she’s passionate about recognizing the positive contributions of the water sector and renewing pride in the critical work we do to protect our planet.
Join us in thanking Ian for his remarkable contributions and welcoming Natalie as she steps into this pivotal role!
by Professor Ian Barker
Outgoing Vice President Environment, IWater
“The thousands of people who joined the March for Clean Water in London on Sunday 3rd November were a clear reminder of how passionately our customers care about the water environment. Politicians care too: the government is introducing new legislation which will affect water companies and regulators and which demonstrates a commitment to reform. It has also announced a wide-ranging review which will report next summer. In the midst of all this change there are two certainties for those of us who work in water in England and Wales: we can expect more scrutiny and higher expectations of our performance. The same will be true in Northern Ireland and Scotland.
A good friend of mine, who is a Sikh, once told me a proverb from his culture which for me sums up where we are: “When elephants fight, the grass gets trampled.” Faced with what seems like relentless reform, scrutiny, and expectations, it is easy for the grass to get trampled. But I think we are tougher than we look. Those working in our sector should not be rolling their socks off every day if they didn’t care about the environment, their customers, and their colleagues. The grass will always grow back; that is a powerful natural process.
It’s been my privilege to have served as Vice President Environment and to help champion IWater members’ commitment to the environment and to our customers. But I’m now moving on, to take a broader role on the Board which will be the focus for professional standards and personal development for all our members.
I am delighted to be handing the baton of VP Environment to Natalie Akroyd, Director of Quality and Environment at South Staffs Water and Cambridge Water. I’ve had the pleasure of working with Natalie for a number of years and I know that she will bring passion and vitality to the role. And that she will be encouraging even more of our members—that means you!—to become professionally registered and so demonstrate that the environment really matters to us all.
Natalie – over to you!”
by Natalie Akroyd
Vice President Environment, IWater
“I would like to start by saying how excited I am to take this opportunity, particularly at a time when the water industry’s focus on the environment has never been stronger. The elevated role we occupy now places us as environmental stewards at the forefront of leadership, and this is something I’m keen to help our members recognise and be proud of.
The Institute of Water offers a unique opportunity to support each and every one of us through our environmental stewardship journey, whether that be through building technical skills, site visits, webinars, and events, to recognising the experience and contributions of individuals through professional registrations. This also gives us the opportunity to build our confidence in our profession and our skillset. It is so important that we have pride in the work we do, which is ever more important in the current climate we find ourselves in.
I believe the environment deserves the very best people to act and speak on its behalf, protect it, and advocate for it. Fortunately, I know from my 20 years in the industry that we have a wealth of just those people all across our industry. However, the current negative focus on the sector has led many to feel deflated and lose pride in the work that they do. So I actually believe the most important outcome of environmental professional registration is to help each of us to recognize and appreciate the positive contributions we make, celebrate the value of our achievements, and renew our passion and motivation to do more. It’s something I feel very passionately about, and hopefully you will too!
Finally, I’d like to say a heartfelt thank you to Ian for all of his dedication and hard work in his role as VP Environment, for the fantastic conferences and events he has delivered, and his relentless commitment to our members and the environment—they are certainly some huge shoes to fill!”
2024 marks a significant milestone for the Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv) registration, a globally recognised designation made possible through the Society for the Environment (SocEnv). Among the founding partners of SocEnv in 2002, the Institute of Water (IWater) has been at the forefront of championing environmental competence, making this anniversary a proud moment for its members and the wider environmental community.
The CEnv designation was established in 2004 following SocEnv’s receipt of a Royal Charter. Its aim was clear: to professionalise environmental practice by recognising individuals with proven expertise and dedication to sustainable development. During these 20 years, over 11,000 professionals, including over 250 from the Institute of Water, have joined or been members of the CEnv community, making invaluable contributions to environmental stewardship and sustainable innovation.
Ministerial Support for Environmental Professionals
In celebration of this 20-year milestone, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Nature, Mary Creagh CBE MP, expressed her appreciation for the vital work of Chartered Environmentalists. In her letter to SocEnv, she wrote:
“I want to express my appreciation for the invaluable contributions of Chartered Environmentalists across the UK, over the hugely impressive 20 years of the Society, its Royal Charter, and the distinguished CEnv professional registration. Your collective expertise, dedication, and innovative approaches are at the heart of efforts to tackle the environmental and wider societal challenges we face today.
Your collective work is vital in ensuring that our natural environment is protected, enhanced and managed sustainably, while developing green skills, creating quality jobs and supporting communities and businesses to ensure that environmental benefits are shared equitably.”
Mary then outlined her eagerness to work with, and learn from, CEnv professionals to collectively tackle the multitude of challenges we face:
“I look forward to working with the Society and to drawing on the expertise and support of innumerable Chartered Environmentalists as we pursue shared goals to achieve net zero, enhance biodiversity, improve air quality, drive resource efficiency and sustainable food production, and build resilient communities in the face of climate change.”
Institute of Water: A Founding Force
As one of the eight founding bodies of SocEnv, the Institute of Water has played a pivotal role in nurturing environmental professionalism within the water sector. Through its support for the CEnv registration, IWater continues to empower its members to lead the way in sustainability, innovation, and environmental excellence.
Commenting on this milestone, Gabrielle Mandell, Chief Executive of the Institute of Water, said:
“The Institute of Water is incredibly proud to have been a founding partner of the Society for the Environment and to have supported the Chartered Environmentalist registration from the very beginning. For 20 years, CEnv professionals have been making a real difference, and we’re delighted that so many of our members are part of this remarkable community. As we look ahead, we remain committed to equipping our members with the tools, recognition, and opportunities they need to lead the way in achieving a sustainable future.”
Reflecting on this achievement, SocEnv Chief Executive Dr Emma Wilcox CEnv FIMMM CMgr stated:
“Ministerial support for environmental professionals and the superb work they do can only be a good thing—especially if it provides greater opportunities to influence policy and decision-making. The CEnv registration—and more recently REnvP and REnvTech—has amplified the influence and trust in the environmental profession. Together with our partners like the Institute of Water, we share a vision for a sustainable future. If you’re considering becoming a CEnv, there’s no better time than now to take that step.”
Join the Celebration
The Institute of Water invites its members to explore the benefits of CEnv registration and celebrate 20 years of progress in environmental professionalism. Together, let’s continue shaping a sustainable future.
Discover 20 years of CEnv: socenv.org.uk/20-years-of-cenv
Learn about becoming a CEnv: socenv.org.uk/chartered-environmentalist
Become a CEnv via IWater: https://instituteofwater.org.uk/chartered-environmentalist-cenv/
Happy World Earth Day 2024!
Today, as we celebrate, it’s an opportunity to reflect on our collective commitment to preserving and protecting our planet’s precious resources.
This year’s theme, Planet vs. Plastics, serves as a reminder of the critical importance of environmental conservation and sustainability, particularly in addressing the global challenge of plastic pollution.
At the Institute of Water, we seek to better equip our members to do their day jobs, advocate for the sector and improve the environment and lives of their communities. Our Environmental Sustainability Policy, “Smaller carbon footprint, mindful about water”, underscores our commitment to achieving these objectives.
Institute of Water members play a vital role in advocating for responsible water management and environmental stewardship. Whether through their work in the water sector, holding or pursuing Environment Registration, or attending one of our related events, they are actively contributing to the protection and enhancement of the environment.
Let’s seize this day as an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to the environment. Whether it’s reducing your own plastic waste, participating in a plastic clean-up event, or donating to a related charitable cause, every action, regardless of its size, contributes to the greater good.
Let’s continue to work together to make a positive impact on our planet.
In the first quarter of 2023, IWater’s environmental licensing body, Society for the Environment confirmed a greater number of new Registered Environmental Practitioner (REnvP) registrations compared to any previous three-month period – an REnvP record quarter.
The record number of environmental practitioners joining the official register during this period is on par with new Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv) registrants for the first time.
Reacting to the news, Chief Executive of the Society for the Environment, Dr Emma Wilcox CEnv, said:
“As organisations continue to make steps towards a more sustainable way of working, more professionals with proven environmental competence are needed. Our aim is to have such professionals in every discipline. Our Technician, Practitioner and Chartered professionals are all playing a huge role in creating a more sustainable world.”
Emma adds; “With the introduction of the REnvP less than two years ago, it is heart-warming to now know that this has proven to be both an entry route and a progression pathway for environmental professionals that resonates as we hoped. If you joined the REnvP register in our record-breaking quarter on your journey to CEnv, or if REnvP is the perfect fit for your career, welcome to the community and thank you for leading the way.”
Rob Plews CEng REnvP, Associate Director at The Shadbolt Group, achieved REnvP during Q1 of 2023 via membership of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3) and noted:
“Bring a Registered Environmental Practitioner compliments my CEng Chartership from IOM3 by confirming that I work in a more varied field beyond core geotechnical work. As a modern geoenvironmental company, recognising that I, and others across the business, have a strong understanding of contaminated land – and how to deal with it – is vital.”
A popular route to REnvP registration is via membership of the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA). Martin Baxter CEnv, Deputy CEO at IEMA, commented on the rising number of REnvP professionals:
“There is a growing demand for people with the skills to implement change for a cleaner, greener future. As businesses translate top-line sustainability targets into on-the-ground action, Registered Environmental Practitioner (REnvP) status will become increasingly important as a mark of practical competence in environmental management and protection.”
By becoming a REnvP, you are highlighting that you have been judged by your peers who have found you to be consistently advancing and advocating good environmental practices. To find out more about IWater’s REnvP offering, click HERE
During a special set of events ahead of Earth Day, Engineers Ireland have today unveiled a new, exciting opportunity to their 25,000+ members – Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv) professional registration.
The announcement comes ahead of World Earth Day and Ireland’s Overshoot Day, the day when human consumption outstrips nature’s resource budget for the entire year if everyone in the world lived like the Irish population.
Based in Dublin, Ireland, Engineers Ireland are the first professional body based outside of the UK to offer CEnv registration to members. They join a collective of 25 professional bodies offering CEnv registration to members all over the world – with 15% of registrants being based outside of the UK already.
Dr Emma Wilcox CEnv, Chief Executive of the Society for the Environment, said “We see environmental professionalism as the vital component in our efforts to build a sustainable future. A workforce with proven, up to date environmental competence, commitment and overall professionalism must be in place across all sectors globally. The engineering community is major part of this, and we encourage current and future Engineers Ireland members to lead the way.
Welcoming the first professional body to our SocEnv family with their HQ outside of the UK is hugely positive. Environmental challenges do not stop at geographical borders. We look forward to broadening our Chartered Environmentalist community and facilitating further professional connections to address the challenges we face and turn opportunities into meaningful results.”
CEnv registration is the internationally recognised gold standard accreditation of environmental competence, commitment and professionalism. Its cross-disciplinary format serves to reflect the scope of sustainability – from engineering to agriculture, ecology to waste management. Professionals in every sector can showcase their knowledge and experience, encouraging positive, well-informed, trusted action in all professions.
It’s time to lead the way.
To become a Chartered Environmentalist with Engineers Ireland, applicants must first be a Chartered Engineer and must be able to demonstrate:
- application of knowledge and understanding of the environment to further the aims of sustainability;
- leadership in sustainable management of the environment;
- effective communication and interpersonal skills; and
- a personal commitment to professional standards, recognising obligations to society, the profession, and the environment.
To find out more about obtaining CEnv registration via Engineers Ireland, visit: engineersireland.ie/Professionals/Membership/Registered-professional-titles/Chartered-Environmentalist
Engineers Ireland join 24 other professional bodies offering CEnv registration to their members, including IWater. To find out more, visit: socenv.org.uk/our-licensed-members