This week on Rubbish Talk, Alasdair is joined by Emma Mulligan, Senior Consultant at Rooted Environmental and the newly appointed CIWM Early Careers President. Emma shares her journey into the waste and resources sector, her move to an independent consultancy, and her passion for encouraging the next generation to consider careers in the industry.
Emma explains how her interest in environmental science led her into waste management through a placement with Norfolk County Council’s closed landfill team, before progressing into consultancy roles with AECOM, WSP and now Rooted Environmental. She discusses the differences between working for large multinational consultancies and a smaller specialist consultancy, highlighting the opportunities for innovation, collaboration and working closely with clients across both the public and private sectors.
A major focus of the conversation is Emma’s new role as CIWM Early Careers President. She outlines her plans to inspire more people to join the waste and resources sector through greater engagement with schools, universities and apprentices, while also supporting professionals in their first ten years of their careers. Emma discusses ideas including webinars, practical career resources and building stronger networking opportunities to help early career professionals connect and develop.
The discussion also explores some of the major changes facing the sector, including the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) and Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), and how new legislation could reshape recycling markets and waste infrastructure. Emma reflects on the importance of preparing the industry for change while ensuring new professionals have the knowledge and confidence to contribute to future developments.
Away from work, Emma talks about completing the Brighton Marathon, volunteering with her local Brownies group, and leading running sessions in her community. She also shares why networking, asking questions and getting involved with professional organisations like CIWM can make a huge difference to anyone starting their career in the waste and resources sector.
A thoughtful conversation covering careers, professional development, consultancy, industry change and the future of the waste and resources sector.
Useful Links
CIWM Early Careers Team | LinkedIn
About Early Careers | CIWM Website
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