CIEEM’s State of the Profession Survey provides a moment in time ‘snapshot’ of the views, experiences and aspirations of the ecology and environmental management profession. Where possible and relevant we have drawn comparisons with the 2022 CIEEM Employment and Salary Survey report in order to highlight any changes and trends.

The survey, which was open to both members and non-members, was undertaken in late January/early February 2025, at a time of ongoing concern about capacity in our profession. We are also in a period of somewhat shifting environmental policy and practice, although this is proceeding at a different pace and direction across countries of the UK, Ireland and elsewhere. (NB: The survey was undertaken before the publication of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill in England but during the consultation period for the preceding Working Paper, and also before the publication of the Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill).

This survey significantly expands on previous Employment and Salary surveys, seeking to understand more about the direction of professional practice and current concerns and opportunities, as well as how it feels to be a professional ecologist or environmental manager in 2025.

Published: May 2025