Member Story: Agnes S Piatek Bednarek ,Climate, Resilience and Sustainability Expert
1. How did you get into CR&S, and why did you choose this profession?
My interest in sustainability began during my geology studies, where I specialised in Environmental Protection and Natural Resources Protection. One of the aspects I found most fascinating was how evidence preserved in geological records helps us understand environmental change, including climate change over thousands and even millions of years.
After graduating, I joined the Ministry for the Environment in Poland, where I worked on environmental legislation and European policy matters. Since then, I have worked across government, healthcare, infrastructure and housing sectors in Poland, New Zealand and the UK.
What continues to motivate me is the opportunity to turn complex environmental challenges into practical action. Whether it is climate change, carbon reduction, renewable energy, resilience or sustainable communities, I believe sustainability is about making better decisions today to create a stronger future for generations to come.
2. What are the most essential skills for working in CR&S?
A genuine understanding of sustainability is fundamental. Before we can develop strategies, set targets or report progress, we need to understand why these issues matter in the first place.
My geology studies helped me understand how environmental change is recorded over time and how scientific evidence helps us understand climate change and its impacts. That foundation has remained important throughout my career.
Sustainability is not simply about policies or reporting frameworks. It is about understanding the environmental, social and economic challenges we face and how they are connected.
I would also highlight curiosity, critical thinking and the ability to see the bigger picture. Sustainability issues are rarely isolated, and lasting solutions often require us to balance environmental, social and economic considerations.
Finally, the ability to communicate complex issues in a practical and meaningful way is essential. The most effective sustainability professionals are those who can turn knowledge and evidence into actions that people understand and support.
3. What advice would you give to others on getting into CR&S?
Stay curious and keep learning. Sustainability is constantly evolving and there is always something new to understand, whether that is climate risk, biodiversity, reporting requirements, social impact or emerging technologies.
I would also encourage people to gain practical experience wherever possible. Frameworks and strategies are important but understanding how change is delivered in practice is equally valuable.
Finally, do not be afraid to bring your own perspective. Sustainability benefits from people with different backgrounds, experiences and ways of thinking. Some of the most valuable lessons from my own career have come from working across different countries, sectors and cultures.
4. Anything else you’d like to share?
One of the highlights of my career was working in New Zealand, where I led sustainability and climate initiatives for a local authority and represented the region on climate change and natural hazard management matters. It reinforced something I have seen throughout my career: while sustainability challenges may look different in different countries, the need for long term thinking remains the same.
Working in the Pacific region also gave me a broader perspective on sustainability. While sustainability is often described through environmental, social and economic pillars, many Pacific communities place equal importance on cultural wellbeing. This recognises the strong connection between people, place, heritage and the natural environment.
It also strengthened my appreciation of climate resilience. For many communities, climate change is not simply a future risk but a current reality. This highlighted the importance of not only reducing emissions, but also preparing for the impacts of a changing climate and helping communities adapt.
Having worked across Poland, New Zealand and the UK, I have come to appreciate how closely environmental, social, economic and cultural factors are connected.
Ultimately, sustainability is about balance. Lasting progress can only be achieved when environmental, social and economic considerations are considered together, creating positive outcomes for both current and future generations.