The Institution of Environmental Sciences

The Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES) is a professional association and registered charity based in the United Kingdom, dedicated to promoting environmental protection, conservation, and the advancement of environmental science. Founded in 1972, the Institution supports professionals, scientists, and academics working across the full spectrum of environmental disciplines, including air quality, land condition, marine science, and environmental education[2][1].

History

The IES was established as a result of an initiative by Dr. John Rose during a series of meetings held from 1971 to 1972 at the Royal Society in London, chaired by Lord Burntwood (Julian Snow, Baron Burntwood)[2]. Its original aim was to raise public awareness of environmental science and to support the development of environmental professionals.

Activities and Purpose

The Institution serves as a membership organization that promotes environmental science and its application in policy, practice, and education. It acts as a conduit for knowledge-sharing among environmental professionals and the wider public.

Key objectives of the IES include:

• Supporting the development and careers of environmental professionals.
• Facilitating the enhancement of environmental science education.
• Promoting and increasing public awareness of environmental science[5][4].

Professional Certification and Membership

The IES is a founding constituent body of the Society for the Environment (SocEnv) and the Science Council. It provides professional qualifications, including the status of Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv), recognizing members' commitment, competence, and expertise in the environmental science field. This status is increasingly recognized by employers and within the environmental profession.

Membership caters to environmental professionals at various career stages, offering support from early career development through to achieving Chartered status. Membership types are structured to accommodate a range of experience and specializations within environmental science[5].

Governance and Leadership

As of the most recent information, the IES is led by President Julie Hill, with key personnel including CEO Adam Donnan and Chair Bernard Devereux[2].

Publications and Events

The IES publishes the environmental SCIENTIST journal quarterly, which includes expert-written articles on key topics within the environmental science sector. The journal is freely accessible three months after publication. The Institution also releases reports and guidance materials relevant to environmental science professionals.

It hosts various events, conferences, and forums aimed at fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among environmental scientists and practitioners. Recent events have explored innovative topics such as the integration of Artificial Intelligence in environmental education and marine conservation aligned with the UN Ocean Decade[1].

Affiliations and Administration

The IES administers two UK organizations:

• The Community for Environmental Disciplines in Higher Education, which accredits university environmental science programs.
• The Institute of Air Quality Management, which focuses on air quality professionals[2].

Charity Status

The Institution of Environmental Sciences Limited is registered as a charity in the UK (Charity number: 277611). It operates as a nonprofit organization committed to raising public awareness of environmental science and supporting the professional development of environmental scientists[4].

This overview reflects the Institution's role as a leading entity advancing environmental science, professional development, and public understanding across the UK and internationally.

[1] https://www.the-ies.org [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Institution_of_Environmental_Sciences [3] https://www.iest.org [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/277611/charity-overview [5] https://www.greenjobs.co.uk/the-institution-of-environmental-sciences.cms.asp