Neil Scarlett celebrates 2022 WaPUG Prize 

The Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM) Urban Drainage Group (UDG) has awarded their WaPUG prize to Neil Scarlett in recognition of a leader with ‘an established history of distinguished service in the field of urban drainage’.

Environmental Monitoring Solutions is delighted that their Non-Exec Director, Neil Scarlett has been awarded this prestigious prize by his professional institution. Neil has an impressive 30 year track record as a hydrologist with a particular focus on large wastewater network monitoring programmes.

As well as recognising Neil’s distinguished history in his profession, the prize also celebrates the lasting contribution he has made to urban drainage practice, his leadership and inspiration, his work on influencing national policy, and the innovation he has delivered in urban drainage.

Neil was nominated for the prize by Jonathan Cutting and Kieran Downey for his loyal service to WaPUG and the CIWEM UDG committee for more than 25 years.

“Neil undertook numerous roles on the committee up to and after his successful period as chair, retiring from active committee duty in 2019. He successfully managed and delivered CIWEM events and established benchmarks for quality conferences.  He passionately believes in and loves the urban drainage community, recognising the value of being together, sharing good practice and enjoying one another’s company. He saw the need to safeguard the future of the community and was instrumental in negotiating connections with CIWEM. He also pioneered a presence in the Far East, reminding members that the community is truly global.

Neil has made notable personal technical contributions to the industry through his work and leadership. His vision helped connect theory and methodology to practical innovation in the field, especially in water quality data and in the use of telemetry. His personal contributions helped the industry understand its systems and their impact with an accuracy and precision not previously seen.

Neil’s most lasting contributions, however, have been as a trusted friend and wise mentor for many people in the industry. Colleagues continue to turn to Neil for his counsel and in this way his support has been invaluable in enabling many others to survive and thrive in their careers and to make their own lasting personal contributions.”

Neil comments, “I’m delighted and proud to receive this award. My involvement with CIWEM’s Urban Drainage Group (WaPUG) has been a highlight of my working life and I am incredibly proud of the organisation that exists today. When I look at some of the previous recipients of this award, I consider myself lucky to be recognised alongside some of my mentors and leaders who helped establish our profession.”