IES Members recognised by SocEnv and ENDS Power List

The IES was pleased to see so many members recognised for their achievements this month. It is testament to the outstanding quality of IES members that they continue to receive widespread recognition for their work as leaders in the sector and exceptional professionals.

ENDS Power List 2026

The ENDS Power List, organised by ENDS Report, puts a spotlight on 100 environmental professionals who have made impactful contributions to the sector over the last two years. Several IES members and stakeholders were awarded a spot on the list. Some of the members recognised were:

• IES President Julie Hill, who was recognised "as one of the UK environment sector’s most influential voices on governance and institutional leadership".
• Dave Stone, an IES Fellow, Chartered Scientist, and former IES trustee, who was recognised for his impact in the public sector category.
• Dr. Xiangyu (Sian) Sheng, an IES Fellow, IAQM Fellow, Chartered Environmentalist, and Chair of the IES Climate Action Community, who was listed as one of the most impactful environmental consultants.
• Sally Shaw, Co-Chair of the National Contaminated Land Officers Group, who was described as “a tireless advocate” for excellence in the field of land contamination and in supporting Contaminated Land Officers across the country.
• Our Head of Policy, Joseph Lewis, who was recognised for being "a prominent advocate for ensuring  environmental science is reflected in public policy".

SocEnv Awards 2026

The IES also had a strong showing at the SocEnv Awards 2026. 

IAQM Chair Sarah Horrocks was shortlisted as a finalist for the title of Environmental Professional of the Year. Last year's Environmental Professional of the Year, IES Fellow Robbie Epsom, also gave a speech at the event.

A highlight of the evening saw IES Vice President Professor Carolyn Roberts awarded with an Honorary Fellowship by SocEnv, recognising her status as a longstanding champion of the environmental profession and her tireless work towards a better and fairer water environment.

"Through the award of Honorary Fellow, SocEnv recognises exceptional, long-term contributions made to protect, enhance, and publicly champion our environment. Honorary Fellows represent a breadth of sectors and are all eminent and respected in their own right. Together, they have a powerful voice and a significant opportunity for influencing policy together at the highest levels."

Carolyn is a Vice President and Fellow of the IES, having previously served as its Chair between 2006 and 2009. Carolyn is a water resource management and science communication specialist who has taught, researched and lectured across the world. Among many achievements, she was the first Professor of Environment at Gresham College in London, was Chair of the Higher Education Academy’s Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences Subject Centre Advisory Board, and is currently the Master of the Worshipful Company of Water Conservators, one of London’s modern Livery Companies. 

Carolyn was recognised as a highly commended finalist for Environmental Professional of the Year in 2019. She served as Chair of SocEnv between 2012 and 2014 and chaired the Honorary Fellows Panel for many years. Carolyn has been a Chartered Environmentalist since 2006, and for six years ran IES workshops, helping hundreds of individuals achieve Chartership. 

In 2024, Carolyn gave the annual IES Burntwood Lecture on the topic of 'Environmental Science and the Law', reflecting on the evolution of applied environmental science over the last thirty years, as well as her work as an expert witness.

How can I be recognised for my achievements?

Both the ENDS Power List and the SocEnv Awards show how important professional registration is for those seeking to enhance their reputation and progress in their careers. If you aren't already a member, join the IES or consider becoming an Affiliate.

• Join one of our member-led Communities, working with likeminded professionals to represent your field or tackle the biggest environmental challenges
• Get in touch with our Events Team or Publications Team who can help you share your expertise through a webinar, event, or article
• Keep your professional development up to date with our latest guidance, reports, and training
• Consider the next step in your career: are you ready for Chartership?

Header image credit: © Society for the Environment