On the 14 March more than 50 environmental professionals from Canberra, Yass, Sydney and Armidale came together to enjoy an informative, thought provoking and entertaining impact assessment full day forum at the Australian National University in Canberra. Presentations at the event covered a diverse array of impact assessment topics relating to aspects such as corridor preservation, major transport projects, strategic environmental assessments, Department of Defence activities, stock saleyards, major international rally car events and heritage bridges. The event was convened by the EIANZ ACT Division and delivered in partnership with WSP.

WSP was honoured to be able to support the EIANZ in organising the event. One of WSP’s Guiding Principles is that “We are future-focused and challenge the status quo” and events such as this, allow us, as environmental impact assessment professionals from a variety of backgrounds, experience and sectors (public and private) to come together and discuss some key challenges and opportunities facing the profession. The forum provided an opportunity for us to share knowledge and learnings with a view to improved outcomes for the environment and communities, which is strongly aligned with WSPs culture.  

WSP has a long history of involvement with EIANZ and encourages staff in its Environment Business in Australia and New Zealand to be actively involved with the EIANZ, including the ongoing professional development activities provided by the institute and in working towards attainment of certification under the CEnVP scheme.

I was honoured to be able to facilitate the event. It has left me with ideas of how I can challenge myself and my colleagues in relation to impact assessment and expanded my network within the profession. 

I thoroughly look forward to the next EIANZ event.