As the year draws to a close, it’s hard not to feel proud of what AEnvCoW has achieved together in 2025. This has been a year of growth, momentum and real influence – driven, as always, by the commitment of our volunteers, partners and members. So, in the spirit of the season, here’s my slightly festive take on our year – the 12 highlights of AEnvCoW (which you can sing along to...!)
On the first highlight…
We delivered our largest Annual Conference to date in Manchester (sold out!), and attracted strong interest beyond our membership – 71% of delegates were non-members.
On the second…
We strengthened training and learning. Our Introduction to the Environmental Clerk of Works course ran twice, in February and November, training 73 participants. Alongside this, four webinars brought together 178 participants, with expert speakers from across industry and practice.
On the third…
We launched our 2025–2028 Strategy and Action Plan. Shaped by consultation with members and stakeholders, it sets a clear direction for strengthening the EnvCoW role and tackling some of the most pressing challenges in environmental compliance.
On the fourth…
We welcomed new energy and expertise into the organisation. Kevin O’Connell, Carol Greenwell, Emma Craik and Natasha Stevens-Woest joined our Delivery Team, and we created a new Vice Chair role, now held by Kevin.
On the fifth…
We began exploring future partnerships with the Institute of Environmental Sciences (IES) and the Institute of Specialist Environmental Professionals (ISEP), opening the door to wider collaboration across the profession.
On the sixth…
We worked closely with the University of the West of Scotland to strengthen their Introduction to EnvCoW course. Updated materials will support the next student intake, and we look forward to endorsing the course once revisions are complete.
On the seventh…
We progressed major guidance work. Our Industry Guiding Principles were submitted to ISEP for review and publication, and drafting has begun on the Good Practice Guidelines for EnvCoWs – a key next step in defining professional standards.
On the eighth…
We were delighted that Binnies UK confirmed their continued support as an AEnvCoW Corporate Sponsor. Their ongoing commitment plays a vital role in helping us raise standards and promote good practice across the sector.
On the ninth…
We expanded our policy voice by becoming a member of Scottish Environment LINK, contributing to responses on Scotland’s Environmental Strategy and strengthening our influence in national environmental discussions.
On the tenth…
We launched a refreshed Supporting Organisations Framework for 2025. This strengthens partnership opportunities, expands our capacity to deliver guidance and training, and lays the groundwork for corporate membership opening soon.
On the eleventh…
We published new thought leadership. An article by Richard Patterson (Mott MacDonald) explored how the EnvCoW role fits within NEC Engineering and Construction Contracts – helping bridge the gap between contract mechanisms and real-world environmental delivery, which is a key theme in our Strategy.
On the twelfth…
We’ve been refining our membership application process, with applications set to re-open in mid-January.
And one more to finish…
We’ve launched registration for the AEnvCoW Annual Conference 2026, taking place on 5 March in Edinburgh. With the full programme now live, we’re aiming to make this our biggest and best conference yet – and I hope many of you will join us there.
None of this happens without the time, expertise and generosity of our volunteers, supporters and partners. Thank you for everything you’ve contributed this year. AEnvCoW continues to grow because of you.
Wishing you a restful break and a very happy festive season. I look forward to everything we’ll achieve together in 2026.
Best wishes,
Rebecca Passmore
Chair & Director, AEnvCoW
