CL:AIRE's Technology and Research Group (TRG) has a new chair and deputy chair for 2026-2028. Liz Gray, Ramboll is the chair and Karen Young, Jacobs is the deputy chair. Both joined the TRG in 2020. Special thanks to outgoing chair Kim Baines, Environment Agency for her energy and commitment to the role. Kim will remain on the TRG.

The TRG is an advisory group made up of leading professionals who support CL:AIRE on technology development and research, provide guidance on issues relating to the sustainable reuse of land and review all its publications and training.

Further information about the TRG can be found here.

CL:AIRE's first 2026 Members' evening networking event will be in Bristol on 19 March 2026. This event is a great opportunity to network with other members after work, as some food and drink will be available but registration is required. Four sponsorship spaces are available. If you are interested in supporting CL:AIRE, further details are on the registration form. Members' Evening Networking Event 19 March 2026 - Bristol – Fill out form. Thank you to Remedia Group and UK Remediation for their support. 

The next Gas Protection Verification Accreditation Scheme (GPVS) application window is open until 28 February 2026. The application window is open to Technician Grade and Specialist Grade applicants. Further information is available at the following links: Becoming an Accredited Person and What is GPV Accreditation?

The National Brownfield Forum November 2025 meeting notes have been published and are available to access here. Also, Steve Edgar of Vertase FLI has been voted as the new deputy chair of the National Brownfield Forum, with Liz Hart of Hart Environmental Ltd taking on the chair role.

The Chief Scientist's Group within the Environment Agency has published developed toxicological based thresholds for water for several PFAS. The findings will inform the Environment Agency's ongoing efforts to understand the impact and manage the risks from PFAS in surface waters. The values derived for PFOS do not replace the existing statutory Environmental Quality Standard for PFOS. To download a summary report and full report here.

Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) has published a strategic assessment exploring how global biodiversity loss and the collapse of critical ecosystems could affect UK's resilience, security and prosperity. Download the report here.

Interstate Technology & Regulatory Council (ITRC) has released an updated version of its PFAS Technical and Regulatory Web Guidance Document (PFAS-1). This comprehensive update incorporates the latest science, emerging issues, and practical lessons learned from real-world applications. 

Remember you can find out more about PFAS in the UK and globally on CL:AIRE's dedicated PFAS page (claire.co.uk/pfas). 

The Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST) has recently published a research briefing on the management of legacy landfill. This POSTnote outlines evidence on environmental risks from legacy landfill sites in England, related policy and regulation, remediation and reducing risks. It is available to download here.

European Commission (EC) has published a new guide bringing together updated legal, technical, and scientific developments, including changes to the Asbestos at Work Directive. Its aim is to raise awareness of asbestos risks, promote good practice in managing asbestos at work, and provide practical ways to reduce worker exposure across all types of organisations. The guidance supports employers and workers by sharing examples of effective asbestos management, helping to improve consistency, competence, and protection across the EU. The guide can be downloaded here.

The Office of Environmental Protection has published its latest annual report providing an assessment on progress towards legally-binding environmental targets, commitments and goals as stated in the Environment Improvement Plan. The report covers the period 1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025. Further information and to download the report here.

Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST) has published a note summarising the challenges and options for reducing nutrient pollution in river catchments currently subject to 'nutrient neutrality' planning advice. This is available to read here.