In an engaging and thought-provoking session at the Resourcing Scotland Conference, early-career professionals and students from Edinburgh University, Glasgow Caledonian University, and the University of West of Scotland joined Alasdair Meldrum, Director of Albion Environmental Ltd and Sheila Best, SLR Consulting & CIWM Scotland and Claire Shipp, Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology (REA) for a special edition of Rubbish Talk. The session delved into challenges, opportunities, and the future of waste management, providing practical career advice and discussing how young professionals can shape the sector.
Event Overview
The session featured Q&A’s, poll questions, lively discussions, and presentations, fostering interaction between students and industry experts. Key themes ranged from the evolving landscape of waste management to actionable strategies for enhancing public engagement with sustainability practices.
Key Takeaways and Insights
Student Q&A Highlights
1. What does your role entail?
Alasdair Meldrum: As Director of Albion Environmental, Alasdair focuses on training and consultancy in waste and resource management.
Claire Shipp: As a Circular Bioresources Analyst at REA, Claire works on regulatory and technical support for renewable energy and organic waste solutions.
2. What are the biggest challenges facing the waste sector?
Alasdair: Transforming UK waste management has been a decades-long journey, reducing landfill usage from 95% in 1990 to around 50% today. Challenges include microplastics, carbon emissions, and public engagement.
Claire: Complex and interconnected issues require holistic solutions, particularly when communicating their importance to the general public.
3. Advice for Early-Career Professionals
Networking & Volunteering: Alasdair emphasised getting involved in organisations like CIWM, REA, and SWITCH.
Learning on the Ground: Claire highlighted the importance of site visits to deepen practical understanding and build credibility.
Bringing Solutions: Offering ideas, even half-formed, adds value to discussions and showcases initiative.
4. What skills are essential for the next generation?
Alasdair: Effective communication and critical research skills are crucial to navigate the overwhelming volume of information in the sector.
Claire: Balancing detailed technical knowledge with the ability to see the bigger picture ensures practical, impactful work.
Audience Poll Results
Does the industry do enough to promote career opportunities?
– Over 85% responded no.
Most helpful tools for accessing opportunities:
– Mentorship & internships, site visits, training and funding were highly favoured.
Broader Discussions
1. Embedding Waste Management Across Disciplines
The audience agreed that waste and sustainability topics should be integrated across fields like engineering, business, and accounting. Interdisciplinary learning fosters a holistic understanding of sustainability.
2. Engaging the Public
Alasdair: Governments and industry need to push for better public compliance with waste systems.
Claire: Consistent messaging and public accountability are key.
3. Industry Challenges
Brian Harkins (Binn Group) raised concerns about operational roles, particularly the aging workforce in HGV driving and waste collection. He emphasised the importance of addressing labour shortages to maintain industry efficiency.
Looking Ahead
The session underscored the importance of equipping the next generation of waste professionals with skills, mentorship, and opportunities to make a real impact. Through collaboration, education, and innovation, the waste sector can continue driving progress toward a sustainable future.
Upcoming Events
SWITCH: Alasdair highlighted SWITCH’s focus on training and safety, with a Winter Seminar & AGM on December 4th.
Public Speaking Workshop: Claire announced a hybrid training session on presentation skills for young professionals, accessible online or in-person in London (£25, with options for financial assistance).
CIWM Membership: Sheila encouraged students to explore membership for mentorship, training and career resources
Thank You!
Special thanks to our panellist’s and students for their insightful contributions! Attendees were challenged to connect with someone new during networking, fostering a collaborative and supportive community within the waste sector.
Let’s continue working together to drive progress toward a sustainable future!
Stay Connected
Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube
Email: hello@rubbishtalk.co.uk