CIGPE - Flooding, Flood Risk and Mitigation Measures

Flooding poses an increasing threat to cities due to rising populations, urbanization, and the accelerating impacts of climate change. Despite its potentially devastating consequences, flood risk is often overlooked. Phil Williams, a Civil & Water Engineer and Director of The Environmental Protection Group, will share his insights on this pressing issue, focusing on the factors driving flood risk in coastal and urban environments. His presentation will highlight vulnerable regions such as the Channel Islands, where the challenges of coastal storm surges, rising sea levels, and fluvial flooding are particularly severe. A central theme of Phil’s presentation will be the importance of Flood Risk Assessments. These assessments go beyond fulfilling planning requirements—they are essential for managing and mitigating flood risk effectively. By identifying vulnerable areas and informing resilient strategies, they play a key role in safeguarding infrastructure and communities from the growing threat of severe weather events and rising waters. Phil will also explore current and emerging methods to create flood-resilient communities. He will discuss the adoption of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) and nature-based solutions, which not only manage floodwater but also preserve natural habitats and promote greener, healthier urban spaces.

Phil started his career at The Environmental Protection Group (EPG) as a graduate SuDS and FRA engineer and now serves as a Board Director. He is a Chartered member of CIWEM, a member of SusDrain, and delivers SuDS training for CIRIA. Passionate about SuDS, flood risk, hydraulic modelling, and water sustainability, Phil frequently contributes to committees, co-authors papers, and leads R&D in new methods. Phil has led international projects across the UK, US, Europe, and the Middle East, focusing on innovation and sustainability. He collaborates with multidisciplinary teams from concept to construction and is an active member of professional groups like CIWEM. Recently, he was honoured as a ‘Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Water Conservators’ and a Freeman of the City of London, recognising his expertise in water and environmental management.

For Jersey lectures in 2025, we will continue our 2024 way of presenting and this will be from 5:30pm at the Ouless Room at the Jersey Museum. Teas and Coffee will be available