As professionals working to protect and enhance the natural environment, ecologists are held to high standards of conduct. CIEEM is the leading professional membership body representing and supporting ecologists and environmental managers in the UK, Ireland and abroad and publishes a Code of Professional Conduct “The Code” which sets out these standards and expectations.
In 2025, CIEEM released an updated version of the Code to reflect developments in the sector, changing societal values, and the pressing need for collective environmental responsibility. This blog sets out to compare the new Code with its predecessor, highlighting the most significant changes and what they mean in practice for ecologists and environmental professionals.
Key changes and additions
The new Code is clearer, more concise, and structured around principles rather than a list of dos and don'ts. It encourages a more considered approach and proactive engagement with emerging challenges, such as climate justice and inclusive practice.
While the original Code emphasised honesty and fairness, the updated version expands on what integrity looks like in practice. There is greater emphasis on accountability, openness about conflicts of interest, and the importance of being prepared to raise concerns about unethical conduct, including within one's own organisation.
It reinforces the duty to work within one's competence and to actively seek opportunities for continued learning. There is more explicit language around understanding the limits of one's expertise and recognising when to seek advice or refer work on.
CPD is not just encouraged, it is framed as a professional obligation essential to good judgement and effective environmental stewardship.
There is a much stronger ethical framing around sustainability. Members are now expected to give appropriate weight to the climate and biodiversity emergencies in all aspects of their work. This means avoiding greenwashing, being transparent about limitations, and advocating for ecologically responsible outcomes, even when under commercial or political pressure.
The new Code brings Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) to the forefront of professional practice. Members are expected to treat all individuals with respect, to challenge discriminatory behaviour, and to foster inclusive environments (whether in the field, office, or public engagement). This shift mirrors the increasing recognition that a diverse profession is a stronger, more ethical one, and that inclusion is fundamental to sustainability.
Finally, the revised Code strengthens the responsibility to communicate clearly, truthfully, and without misleading language, particularly when dealing with clients, consultees, and the wider public. Transparency, accountability, and clear distinction between fact, opinion, and recommendation are now more strongly emphasised.
Practical implications for practising ecologists
For ecologists in consultancy, public service, research, or NGOs, the updated Code serves as a useful framework for both personal and organisational best practice.
Some practical actions may include:
· Reviewing internal codes of conduct and staff training
· Embedding ethical considerations in project planning and reporting
· Supporting junior colleagues in understanding their responsibilities
· Proactively considering sustainability, EDI, and public interest in all professional decisions
Conclusion
The updated CIEEM Code of Professional Conduct is more than a rulebook; it's the basis for ethical, competent, and responsible ecological practice. It challenges us to be not only technically proficient, but also honest, inclusive, and environmentally conscious.
Now is a good time to revisit the Code, discuss it with your team, and reflect on how it informs your daily decisions. It's also an opportunity to lead by example, shaping a more sustainable and ethical future for our profession.
July 2025