Katherine Valery is a Senior Environmental Officer at Collen Construction supporting project with LEED, WELL, BREEAM, EU taxonomy certifications and reviewing environmental aspects on each site. She proposed and set up a sustainability plan for the company, establishing environmental KPI and goals for energy, CO2 emissions, water and waste reduction.
Valery describes herself as a committed professional who is passionate about caring for the environment and helping Collen ensure compliance with environmental legislation. With 15 years’ experience in the oil and gas industry internationally, she holds qualifications in chemistry and environmental science and has considerable expertise in formulating environmental policies, strategies and procedures.
If you could spend a day in someone else’s shoes who would it be?
I would spend a day with a contract project manager to understand all the issues they must sort in a day, how they establish their priorities and understand why they usually give a low priority to sustainability aspects.
What law would you change?
I would change the law regarding dioxide carbon emissions, in terms of consequences to the industry. I would limit emissions according to the three scopes.
What’s your pet peeve?
When things are not well organised. When a place is clean and organised you can work better and enjoy the place so much more. The
contrary is disturbing.
Who has inspired you most?
My parents, definitely. Firstly for their values of honesty and their ethics. Secondly, they inspired me to do whatever I want but with honesty, passion and ethics. Thirdly they taught me to be resilient. If there is an obstacle you must learn how to deal with it.
Powerscourt House and Gardens
Favourite landmark?
Powerscourt House & Gardens because it’s a quiet space with an exceptional landscape. It transmits a sense of peace. I can spend hours there and just feel happy and quiet.
If you could get rid of one Irish county which one would it be?
I’m not of Irish citizenship but I love Ireland with all my heart so I couldn’t get rid of any county! All are exceptional and have interesting natural spaces, heritage and landscape. I wouldn’t delete a millimetre of this great island.
What song would you play for the rest of your life?
That’s a difficult one but I would say Walk On by U2. The message is that in spite of the adversities, you must continue your life and do the best you can.
Favourite quote?
‘Patience is a virtue’. For me, patience is a sign of maturity.
Favourite website?
The UN environment programme for news about initiatives, environmental statistics and initiatives that we can implement in our daily life to enhance the environment. It also offers interesting training about SDG (Sustainable Development Goals)
What should everyone do at least once in their life?
Become involved with an NGO (but not giving money). Help with a human cause, protect an endemic species or help to restore deforested areas.
