As we dive into 2025, the sustainability landscape is evolving rapidly with significant regulatory changes and market trends shaping our industry. This article explores the three key priority areas we are noticing arise as critical themes in the sustainability market and how they are impacting the UK job market. 

UK Packaging EPR Regulations: Driving Innovation 

Here at home, the UK's Packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations have come into full force this year. These regulations are reshaping the packaging industry and creating exciting opportunities in sustainable packaging, innovation, and materials science. 

We're seeing a surge in roles focused on reducing environmental impacts, with companies actively seeking professionals who can help them navigate these new requirements. It's not just about compliance; it's about driving real change in how we approach packaging design and waste management. 

CSRD and the Power of Reporting 

There has been quite a buzz about the European Union’s Omnibus Simplification Package aimed at streamlining mandatory reporting. However, as sustainability professionals, we need to ensure that simplification doesn't come at the cost of meaningful action. 

The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) has been a significant driver of job creation in the sustainability sector here in the UK. While many companies are focusing on compliance, the trailblazers are those who recognise that reporting is more than a box-ticking exercise. It's a tool for accountability and a means to elevate sustainability to the top of the corporate agenda. 

We're seeing an increasing demand for professionals who can not only interpret legislation and demands of stakeholders but also use reporting as a catalyst for organisational change and sustainable impact. 

Scope 3: The New Frontier 

Scope 3 emissions have become a high priority focus, sparking some of the most wide-reaching roles in the eco-system. These positions require a unique blend of skills, combining stakeholder engagement with the ability to drive real changes in purchasing, procurement, and supplier relationships. 

The work being done by the Scope 3 Peer group is particularly noteworthy, addressing challenges at a market level. We're also seeing innovative tech solutions, such as Mondra's work in the food system, which is enabling a harmonised approach to product-level sustainability data. 

Beyond Reporting: The Next Frontier 

The above three areas focus on business getting their ‘reporting’ house in order.    Companies must understand evolving regulatory requirements, identify what information stakeholders require, and then establish the systems required to deliver strategic outcomes.   

For companies that have a strong grasp on reporting, the focus is shifting to what's next. We're seeing a rise in positions related to regeneration, nature, water, biodiversity, social impact, and circular design. These positions represent the cutting edge of sustainability, where businesses move beyond compliance to create meaningful, positive change in the world around us. 

How We Can Help 

As specialist recruitment consultants, our value lies in helping you define the talent you need to bring into your team next. We speak to the best sustainability professionals every day, understanding not just their accomplishments but also their aspirations. 

Our role is to be the matchmaker, ensuring you're choosing the absolute best person in the market for your team, not just the best person who happened to see your job advert. We proactively source candidates from our highly specialised network and craft shortlists that truly reflect the top talent available, aligning with your sustainability goals and team dynamics. 

If you're looking to build or expand your sustainability team, let's chat. We'd love to discuss your goals and how we can help you achieve them. Get in touch today, and let's shape the future of sustainability together.