Andrew Del Marco MEIANZ CEnvP Freelance Environmental Consultant | Ironbark Environmental and Sustainable Development Qualifications | Bachelor of Science (Murdoch 1990)

What do you do?

I work with community groups, including catchment and landcare groups, NGOs, local government, state agencies and others developing NRM, catchment and biodiversity plans, policies and projects for the south west of WA including the Great Western Woodlands and Perth and Peel Regions.

Best aspect of your work?

Working with enthusiastic people who are open to challenges, changes and improvement. Another highlight has been helping to set up a community landcare centre, which is still successfully operating after 20 years.

How did you get there?

I started out working for the Water Authority back in the early 1990s under mentor, Alan Hill, who had a great passion for water resource management, wetlands and a deep respect for nature and Aboriginal culture. I then had the honour of working for the Shire of Serpentine-Jarrahdale (1996 – 2002), whilst they implemented a raft of new environmental initiatives.  This was supported by enthusiastic staff and councillors, including Jan Star and Colleen Rankin.  

The greyer I get, the more I value building relationships, mentoring and teamwork.

Biggest environmental concern?

Ignorance, especially about the public good and the need to be wiser custodians of the earth’s resources.

How and why did you get involved in the EIANZ?

I got involved because I am deeply concerned that environmental practitioners are part of the environmental problem. We often rely upon legislative standards, not professional standards. Do we have sufficient and satisfactory professional standards? As a profession, we need to advocate for higher standards of environmental legislation, policy and protection.