Professionalism, sustainability and the public interest: What next?

With mankind on a trajectory towards an untenable situation on a finite planet, a radical acceleration is needed in society's direction towards sustainability. Instead, progress is slowing. There is a concentration on short-term returns and limited change, with small steps being promoted to the public as much greener than they actually are. A defining component of a profession is to work for the common good. However, UK built environment professionals seem to have been driven into a space in which they are expected to apply their skills with little question or reflection about the risks of business as usual. If professionals are to act as a positive catalyst and influence on wider society, then their practices and organizations will need to articulate more clearly how their independent protection of the public good will bring benefits. Changes to professional practice and professional organizations must focus on outcomes and long-term issues.