The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM), is the professional body which represents over 6,000 waste management professionals - predominantly in the UK but also overseas. The CIWM sets the professional standards for individuals working in the waste management industry and has various grades of membership determined by education, qualification and experience.

Through its commercial subsidiary, IWM Business Services Limited, the Institution provides conference, exhibition, training and technical publication services to the industry.

A key event is the CIWM Annual Conference & Exhibition, the world's largest annual event dedicated to waste management. In addition, a series of technical and scientific seminars on waste management activities are organised by IWM Business Services Ltd, which are presented by eminent speakers from the industry.

The Institution has its Headquarters in Northampton and also operates ten Regional Centres. These Centres, throughout England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, run an active programme of events for local members.

Its Objectives are:

• Advancing the scientific, technical and practical aspects of wastes management for the safeguarding of the environment
• Promoting education, training, research and the dissemination of knowledge in all matters of wastes management
• Striving to achieve and maintain the highest standards of practice, competence and conduct by all its members.