Society's adaptation to a new reality is marked by creation of associated institutions and organisational processes to manage emerging issues. Accounting and Medicine have had administrative frameworks for centuries while Environmental and Computing management institutions have only matured in the last five decades. Climate change has generated significant public debate for 40 years. Yet, to date there are no industry standards determining the professional and ethical credentials of those engaged in managing climate change on behalf of society.

In 2014, after three years of development, the Environmental Institute of Australia and New Zealand has launched the world's first Certified Practitioner scheme for Climate Change. The CEnvP (Climate Change Specialist) is one of four specialist areas of the EIANZ's Certified Environmental Practitioner program. It accepts climate adaptation and mitigation practitioner applicants who have ten years professional experience, of which five or more are directly climate related. The scheme provides professional recognition to the individual and assures expertise, experience and integrity for those choosing to use a certified practitioner's services. With two intakes annually applicants from any base profession or who work overseas are welcome to apply.

Media debates on the economic implications of climate action now influence election results at every level of government. Thousands of Australians are making a career of understanding climate science and its social, political, business and environmental management consequences. Launching the scheme now shows EIANZ's leadership and marks global maturity of the industry. Learn more, make an application for, or encourage use of Certified Climate Practitioners.