Steve Coles – a Potable Water Process Controller at Anglian Water – is the first Institute of Water Member to be awarded Registered Environmental Practitioner (REnvP).
Steve has worked for Anglian Water for 20 years, with 8 years in his current role. He is also the Biodiversity Champion for his operational area and has had a long running project at Wing Water Treatment Works to develop old amenity grassland into a productive wildflower meadow.
Steve was the very first person to attain Registered Environmental Technician (REnvTech) when it became available in 2015, recognising it was a means of formalising his understanding of the environmental responsibilities that come with his role and demonstrating my increasing knowledge of biodiversity, and meadow management through the project.
Steve is passionate about biodiversity and a great ambassador for Environmental Registration, giving presentations, interviews and podcasts. He has recently registered as a mentor and become an assessor for members applying for REnvTech.
REnvP was introduced at the end of last year and sits between the well-established Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv) and REnvTech. Steve found that both applications using the same format made for a seamless transition between REnvTech and REnvP. He said:
“I have found that keeping an up-to-date CPD log of my activities has been very useful in guiding the writing process of both applications and has helped me assess the direction of my career.
“The great unseen benefit of working through these applications is showing you just how much you have achieved throughout your career without necessarily taking stock of your development.
“My professional review was conducted by two friendly Chartered Environmentalists, who put me at ease, and gave me every opportunity to talk through the application. I would recommend both accreditations highly from both a personal and professional perspective.”