Event
What does a career in international development consultancy actually look like? At NIRAS, it means working with people around the world to tackle some of today's biggest challenges, from climate change and protecting wildlife to improving livelihoods, supporting communities and creating opportunities for future generations. And there are many different ways to get involved. Whether your interests lie in the environment, science, engineering, economics, social development or project management, your skills could help make a difference. Explore some of the projects we're involved in, hear the stories of the people and communities behind them, and discover where a career in international consultancy could take you.
Date: 22. October 2026 12.00 - 22. October 2026 12.00
Want to see more examples of international development in action?
Take a look at our brochure to explore how NIRAS works with communities and partners across the world, helping to protect the environment, improve livelihoods and respond to some of the challenges people face.
Helping farmers thrive in a changing climate
What if farming could help tackle climate change while creating better livelihoods?
Across Ethiopia, Malawi, Nepal and Rwanda, Commercial Agriculture for Smallholders and Agribusiness (CASA) worked with farmers and small agricultural businesses to unlock new opportunities, attract investment, and build climate-smart food systems. By helping farmers access markets, finance, and new technologies, the programme supported communities to earn more while producing food in ways that are more resilient to climate change.
Watch the video to see how investment and innovation can transform lives in rural communities around the world.
Growing forests, growing incomes
Can planting trees help people build a better future?
In Uganda, the Investing in Forests and Protected Areas for Climate-Smart Development (ifpac) project supported farmers to establish commercial woodlots, creating new sources of income while protecting natural forests. In just nine months, over 5,300 farmers planted more than 4.5 million tree seedlings across 19 districts, showing how environmental protection and economic opportunity can go hand in hand.
Watch the video to discover how a single seedling can help transform communities and landscapes.
Fighting wildlife crime around the world
From endangered elephants to endangered forests, wildlife crime threatens people, nature, and entire ecosystems.
Through the Darwin Initiative and the Illegal Wildlife Trade Challenge Fund, NIRAS manages funding that supports projects across the globe to protect biodiversity, combat wildlife crime, and strengthen livelihoods. These projects help communities, governments, and conservationists work together to safeguard some of the world's most precious species and habitats.
Watch the video to meet some of the people on the front line of protecting wildlife and nature.
Protecting the Amazon by making forests worth more alive than cut down
The Amazon rainforest is one of the most important ecosystems on Earth. But how do you protect it while helping people make a living?
TEFOS works with communities in conflict-affected areas of the Colombian Amazon to create sustainable livelihoods linked to forests. From responsibly managed timber and Amazon fruits to agroforestry and silvopastoral farming, the programme helps families earn an income while reducing pressure on the forest and protecting biodiversity.
Watch the video to see how communities are helping shape a more sustainable future for the Amazon.
Tackling deforestation on a global scale
Forests help regulate our climate, protect biodiversity, and support millions of people's livelihoods, but they are under increasing threat.
Through the Forest Governance, Markets and Climate programme, NIRAS helps tackle illegal deforestation and promote sustainable use of forest resources around the world. The programme supports innovative projects, research, and local organisations working to protect forests while creating opportunities for forest-dependent communities.
Watch the video to discover some of the inspiring projects helping protect forests for future generations.
Climate action designed by communities
Who should decide how communities respond to climate change?
In Zambia, the Climate Just Communities programme puts local people at the centre of decision-making. Working with groups often left out of traditional development programmes, the project helps communities identify their own priorities, advocate for change, and develop solutions that strengthen resilience to climate impacts.
Watch the video to see how communities are turning their ideas into action against climate change.
Could this be part of your future?
The stories you've explored are just a small part of what international development consultancy involves.
Behind every project are people with different skills, backgrounds and experiences, working together to find solutions, support communities and make a difference.
You don't need to have your whole career mapped out. If you're curious about the world, interested in people and the environment, and want your work to have a purpose, international consultancy could be worth exploring.
Find out more about international development consultancy at NIRAS
Get in touch
Helen Beesley
Head of Business Development - UK and Africa
Edinburgh, United Kingdom