Seven shows unite for the largest Environmental Services & Solutions Expo

Environmental Services & Solutions Expo (ESS) 2025 has marked a record breaking year, becoming the largest event in its history by uniting seven shows for the first time. With the addition of Geotechnical Engineering & Operations Expo (GEO), and Complete Auto Recycling how & Metals Recycling Event (CARS & MRE), the event drew over 10,000 attendees on day one alone, with overall audience up 25%.

The comprehensive conference programme covered a wide range of critical topics, from reflections on climate change and conservation, hosted by Michaela Strachan, to Ukraine as an energy case study, and sessions on armed conflict, contamination, and human health.

Bringing together cutting edge technologies and strategies across net zero, decarbonisation, resource management, circular economy, environmental monitoring, water scarcity and management, biodiversity conservation, environmental emergency response, and emissions control, ESS Expo 2025 provided an unparalleled platform for innovation, collaboration, and knowledge sharing for those working across the environmental services industry.

First time exhibitors were a strong presence at ESS Expo, with many already confirming their return for next year. McLanahan, which exhibited at Resource & Waste Management (RWM) Expo for the first time, praised the experience: ‘This was our first time at RWM, and having the Construction and Demolition Theatre so close to our stand has been a massive benefit. Speaking in a session has generated good footfall, and overall it has been a really positive experience, both through the stand and in generating quality leads.’

Some 720 exhibitors gathered at the NEC, Birmingham to showcase their latest innovations from across the industry, with many choosing the event as the platform to launch new products or make official announcements. 

ESS Expo 2025 also delivered its biggest and most ambitious conference programme yet, with over 450 speakers across 19 different stages and theatres. Sessions featured experts and representatives from leading organisations including Biffa, CIWM, DEFRA, The Environment Agency, Liverpool FC, and many others. Conversations spanned the pressing issues of circularity, sustainability and climate resilience, providing delegates with actionable insights and sector-wide perspectives.

Wildlife TV presenter and conservationist Michaela Strachan headlined the event, blending science, case studies, and personal reflections. She reminded the audience that current human driven changes in methane and CO₂ emissions are driving us into ‘the unknown’. She showcased global examples of adaptation and solutions: from coral restoration in the Maldives, to regenerative farming at Wild Ken Hill in Norfolk, to sustainable broadcasting initiatives, and highlighted saltmarshes as a critical natural carbon store. Her session underscored both the urgency of the crisis and the potential for practical, local solutions.

Rob Mowat, managing director of ESS Expo, said: ‘ESS Expo 2025 has been our largest and most dynamic edition yet, bringing together seven dedicated expos under one roof to showcase the full breadth of the environmental services sector. This expansion has allowed us to highlight not only the unique strengths of each area but also the vital connections between them, demonstrating how collaboration drives progress. We are delighted to have welcomed such a diverse mix of exhibitors and partners, all contributing to the energy and expertise that define this event. Together, we are building momentum toward a greener, more resilient and more circular tomorrow.’

ESS Expo 2026 will return to the NEC, Birmingham, from 16 to 17 September.