Soapbox Science is a hugely successful public engagement project promoting women working in the sciences and the science research and scientific applications they pioneer.

From 12-3pm on the 9th of July Reading’s busy shopping streets will be the setting for Soapbox Science’s second “Environmental Science Special” event. Scientists from an array of environmental disciplines will be talking to the passing audiences about some of the projects and ideas they have worked on to better understand and improve our planet. Talks from the day will include: air pollution, environmental forensics and water contamination. A truly special event and one not to be missed.

The IES is continuously looking for ways to promote equality amongst our members and the environmental sector. Having last year  publicised parental leave guidance to help women (and men) working in the environment, we are partnering with Soapbox Science again to produce the special ‘environmental’ edition of Soapbox Science.

Soapbox scientists appearing on the day:

Katryn Wooley (Hilson Moran):  How I create air pollution

Amanda Zillig (Atkins): What lies beneath – exposing contaminated land risks in exposed ground

Betty Flora Nakiru (University of Sussex): Climate change and drought – how to maximise usage of limited water

Erika Degani (University of Reading): Food security: how can biodiversity help?

Dr Lydia Cole (University of Oxford): Peanut butter, palm oil and peat

Patricia Tumwine (Arup)  You Poo Too – an introduction to the Thames Tideway Tunnel Project

Kate Harrington (Arup) Bringing wildlife into cities – an ecologists approach to development

Dr Manuela Gonazalez-Suarez (University of Reading): The problems of having a big brain and other things that increase extinction risk

Dr Joanna Bagniewska (University of Reading): How Disney & Science don’t always go hand in hand

Kirstie Scott (University College London): Environmental forensics: fighting crime with mud, bugs and plants!

Dr Emily Lines (Queen Mary University of London): Forecasting the future of forests

Dr Victoria Hillborne (London South Bank University): Contamination of water with drugs and their metabolites

Come down and support this initiative on the day. We are also on the lookout for volunteers in the Reading area and company sponsors to get involved in this exciting project. Contact Emma for more information.