Environmental challenges such as pollution, waste, and climate change are increasingly shaping the way businesses operate in cities like London. As one of the world’s leading financial and cultural hubs, London has seen a significant rise in eco-conscious companies providing solutions aimed at preserving the environment while maintaining commercial efficiency.
From waste management to carbon reduction consulting, environmental companies in London are playing a crucial role in driving the city’s transition to sustainability.
This article explores ten of the top-rated environmental companies in London and explains the key aspects that make them stand out in their sector. Additionally, we’ll delve into how these firms contribute to local sustainability goals and what services businesses can expect when hiring them.
What Defines a Leading Environmental Company in London?
Environmental companies serve a wide range of industries by helping them comply with environmental regulations, reduce emissions, and adopt sustainable practices. But what separates the top-tier companies from the rest?
Proven Track Record and Reputation
Top environmental firms often have decades of combined experience, public-sector partnerships, and high client satisfaction ratings on platforms like Google Business.
Certified and Regulated Services
Many firms hold ISO certifications such as ISO 14001 and are regulated by UK bodies like the Environment Agency and DEFRA, ensuring best practices in compliance and safety.
Range of Specialised Services
Services vary widely from environmental impact assessments and sustainability consulting to renewable energy solutions and recycling services.
Who are the Top 10 Environmental Companies in London?
1. AECOM – Global Solutions, Local Impact
AECOM is a world-renowned infrastructure consultancy offering integrated environmental services in London. The company focuses on long-term environmental resilience, helping both private developers and government agencies achieve compliance and innovation. Its expertise spans environmental impact assessments (EIAs), remediation design, and sustainability strategy.
AECOM has contributed to major projects such as HS2 and Thames Tideway, showcasing its ability to manage high-stakes environmental planning. Their London office is backed by multidisciplinary teams of engineers, scientists, and environmental planners.
AECOM’s global experience is tailored locally, offering clients a robust and regulatory-aligned approach to sustainability. They’re a reliable choice for any complex or high-profile urban development project.
Area of Expertise
Environmental Planning & Resilience
Ideal For
Large-scale infrastructure and urban development projects
Pricing: Project-based; starts at ~£5,000+
- Website: www.aecom.com
- Phone: +44 20 7061 7000
- Address: Aldgate Tower, 2 Leman St, London E1 8FA, United Kingdom
- Email: info@aecom.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“AECOM’s team was thorough, responsive, and clearly experienced in navigating complex planning issues.”
2. RSK Group – Grounded in Sustainability
RSK Group is one of the UK’s most diversified environmental consultancies, with a strong presence in London. The firm offers a broad portfolio of services including site investigation, ecological services, geotechnical analysis, and contaminated land remediation. They’re widely regarded for their work with transport, housing, and energy infrastructure projects.
RSK excels in understanding local regulatory frameworks and applying science-led solutions that are practical and commercially viable. Their local teams work closely with clients from feasibility through to construction.
Their ability to manage multidisciplinary projects makes them a one-stop shop for developers and local authorities alike. RSK’s focus on risk management ensures clients are fully protected from environmental liabilities.
Core Strength
Environmental Risk & Remediation
Recommended For
Contaminated land, waste management, and site assessments
Pricing: Custom quotes based on scope
- Website: www.rskgroup.com
- Phone: +44 (0)1743 290001
- Address: 4th Floor, Kingsbourne House, 229-231 High Holborn, London WC1V 7DA
- Email: info@rsk.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆
“Professional and proactive RSK really helped us stay compliant during a sensitive site clearance.”
3. ERM – Strategy Meets Sustainability
Environmental Resources Management (ERM) is a global leader in corporate sustainability advisory and environmental risk management. With a significant base in London, ERM serves multinational clients across industries like oil & gas, pharmaceuticals, and finance. Their service offerings include ESG consulting, carbon accounting, lifecycle analysis, and impact assessments.
ERM is known for helping complex organisations meet international and UK regulations while aligning sustainability with business goals. Their consultants offer both technical insight and strategic clarity, often supporting long-term sustainability planning.
London-based teams bring local expertise backed by ERM’s global reach. They are especially valued by large enterprises needing deep reporting capabilities and regulatory precision.
Main Focus
Corporate Sustainability & ESG Strategy
Suited To
Enterprises seeking to integrate sustainability into their core strategy
Pricing: Premium pricing; starts at ~£10,000+ per engagement
- Website: www.erm.com
- Phone: +44 20 3206 5200
- Address: 2nd Floor, Exchequer Court, 33 St. Mary Axe, London EC3A 8AA
- Email: ukinfo@erm.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“They understood our global ESG targets and provided an actionable, scalable plan.”
4. Mott MacDonald – Engineering a Greener Tomorrow
Mott MacDonald combines global engineering knowledge with local environmental expertise to deliver high-performance, sustainable solutions. Their London office works on critical infrastructure projects ranging from rail systems to flood protection schemes. They support clients throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring environmental safeguards are considered from concept to delivery.
Their services include carbon management, EIA, climate resilience design, and sustainable drainage. As employee-owned, Mott MacDonald prioritises ethical practice and sustainable innovation.
The firm is also a signatory of several net-zero and climate action coalitions. Their approach ensures that engineering outcomes not only meet environmental targets but also promote long-term resilience.
Specialised In
Sustainable Infrastructure Engineering
Preferred For
Transport, energy, and major construction projects
Pricing: Based on project scope
- Website: www.mottmac.com
- Phone: +44 20 7651 0300
- Address: 10 Fleet Pl, London EC4M 7RB, UK
- Email: Directionslondon@mottmac.com
Review: ★★★★★
“Their net-zero insights were invaluable for our redevelopment plans.”
5. SLR Consulting – Practical Environmental Intelligence
SLR Consulting is known for its strategic advisory and technical expertise in environmental planning and assessments. Operating in London, the firm assists developers, architects, and public agencies with project approvals, impact analysis, and sustainability integration. Their consultants specialise in air quality, noise, ecology, and water management.
They offer reliable guidance for environmental permitting and compliance documentation. What sets SLR apart is its strong focus on helping clients deliver on tight deadlines and within budget. With a clear understanding of planning regulations, they streamline the process from planning submission to public inquiry. Their depth of technical detail ensures minimal risk of application delays.
Niche Skill
Environmental Assessments & Compliance Reporting
Best Choice For
Planning applications and real estate developments
Pricing: Competitive, quote upon request
- Website: www.slrconsulting.com
- Phone: +44 330 088 6631
- Address: Summit House, 12 Red Lion Square, London WC1R 4QH, UK
Review: ★★★★☆
“Efficient and deeply knowledgeable. Helped us secure planning approval quickly.”
6. Arup – Shaping a Sustainable Built Environment
Arup is a global engineering and design consultancy deeply involved in shaping London’s built environment. With a holistic focus on architecture, urban planning, and green engineering, Arup’s London office leads several iconic sustainable projects. Their services include sustainable urban development, building performance, and low-carbon design.
Arup supports climate adaptation in urban infrastructure, from flood resilience to heat mitigation. They are also key partners in BREEAM and LEED certification schemes. Their interdisciplinary teams bring together environmental scientists, engineers, and architects to address complex environmental challenges. Arup is the go-to choice for innovative, high-ambition environmental design projects.
Expert Area
Green Building & Urban Ecology
Ideal Use Case
High-performance sustainable architecture and public infrastructure
Pricing: Premium service tier
- Website: www.arup.com
- Phone: +44 (0) 207 636 1531
- Address: 8 Fitzroy St, London W1T 4BJ
- Email: Contact form
Review: ★★★★★
“Collaborative and visionary helped bring our eco-design ideas to life.”
7. Ricardo Energy & Environment – Science-Driven Sustainability
Ricardo Energy & Environment is a technically advanced environmental consultancy known for its robust data analysis and modelling capabilities. Operating in London, they offer services in emissions modelling, net-zero strategies, air quality monitoring, and energy systems analysis.
Ricardo’s expertise is particularly valuable for public sector clients, NGOs, and corporations looking for science-backed insights. They also contribute to UK climate policy and maintain a strong presence in the energy transition space.
Their team includes environmental engineers, data scientists, and policy advisors. Clients benefit from precise environmental intelligence, especially when accuracy and compliance are non-negotiable.
Primary Capability
Scientific Environmental Analysis & Modelling
Great Fit For
Air quality projects and low-carbon energy policies
Pricing: Based on analytical scope
- Website: ee.ricardo.com
- Phone: +44 (0)1273 455611
- Address: Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex BN43 5FG UK
- Email: info@ricardo.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Their data modelling gave us a clear emissions reduction path.”
8. Delta-Simons – Environmental Risks, Managed Smartly
Delta-Simons is a nationally recognised environmental consultancy with strong London operations. The firm is well known for fast, compliant, and commercially focused environmental reports. Their services include due diligence for property acquisitions, compliance audits, and environmental assessments.
With a legal- and risk-oriented approach, Delta-Simons helps clients avoid regulatory breaches and fines. Their London consultants support developers, investors, and landlords with practical, clear advice.
Clients appreciate their speed and flexibility, especially in property transactions with tight timelines. They’re often used during mergers and acquisitions for environmental reporting and liability analysis.
Focus Field
Environmental Due Diligence & Compliance
Good Option For
Legal environmental reporting and site surveys
Pricing: Starting from ~£2,000+
- Website: www.luciongroup.com
- Phone: +44 (0)345 5040 303
- Address: 132 Shoreditch High St, London E1 6JE, UK
- Email: info@luciongroup.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Quick, professional, and saved us major legal headaches during acquisition.”
9. Waterman Group – Engineering Meets Environment
Waterman Group provides integrated environmental and engineering services tailored for urban development. Their London office supports a wide range of sectors including transport, real estate, and public infrastructure. Services cover contaminated land investigation, sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), and environmental management plans.
Waterman is recognised for their deep integration of environmental safeguards into engineering solutions. They work across the entire planning cycle and assist clients in navigating complex regulatory environments. The firm’s emphasis on sustainability makes them a preferred partner for projects needing both compliance and innovation.
Skilled In
Urban Environmental Engineering Solutions
Best Suited For
Transport, regeneration, and infrastructure planning
Pricing: Project-based, varies by sector
- Website: www.watermangroup.com
- Phone: +44 20 7928 7888
- Address: Pickfords Wharf, Clink St, London SE1 9DG
- Email: info@watermangroup.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Their transport and drainage strategy was spot on for our complex site.”
10. Temple Group – Sustainable Planning Experts
Temple Group is an expert consultancy in sustainability and environmental planning, known for its balanced technical and community approach. Based in London, Temple works with both developers and public authorities to create socially and environmentally responsible developments. Their offerings include strategic environmental assessment (SEA), EIA, and stakeholder engagement.
Temple often collaborates with local councils and planning authorities, making them a strong partner for public-facing projects. Their advisors are skilled at integrating social value into environmental strategies. With a commitment to urban sustainability, they focus on making development projects more inclusive and low-impact.
Key Service
Strategic Environmental Planning & Policy
Best Applied To
Public planning and stakeholder engagement projects
Pricing: Tailored to project and sector
- Website: www.templegroup.co.uk
- Phone: +44 (0)20 7394 3700
- Address: The Helicon, 1 South Place, London EC2M 2RB
- Email: info@templegroup.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆
“Balanced both technical and social priorities beautifully in our project.”
What Services Do Environmental Companies in London Typically Offer?
Environmental companies in London provide a broad range of services tailored to help businesses, public sector bodies, and infrastructure projects comply with environmental regulations and contribute positively to sustainability goals. These services go beyond consultancy they often involve technical audits, legal compliance, and strategic planning that align with the UK’s ambitious climate targets.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the most commonly offered services:
Common Services Offered by Environmental Companies in London
| Service Type | Description |
| Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) | A formal process used to evaluate the environmental consequences of proposed developments. EIAs are crucial for large-scale infrastructure or urban projects and are often a legal requirement. |
| Sustainability Consulting | Focuses on helping organisations create and implement sustainability frameworks. This may include energy efficiency strategies, sustainability reporting, and employee engagement programmes. |
| Waste Management | Offers structured plans for waste reduction, recycling, and disposal. Environmental companies ensure businesses minimise landfill use and comply with waste disposal regulations. |
| Air & Water Quality Monitoring | Involves on-site testing and long-term monitoring of pollutants to ensure legal and environmental standards are met, particularly in construction and manufacturing sectors. |
| Net Zero Strategy | Develops roadmaps for organisations to become carbon neutral. This includes emissions audits, offsetting solutions, and green energy transitions. |
| Environmental Compliance | Ensures adherence to UK and EU environmental laws such as REACH, the Environmental Protection Act 1990, and ISO standards. Often involves regulatory filings and periodic audits. |
How Can Businesses in London Choose the Right Environmental Partner?
Choosing the right environmental partner is a critical decision for any business aiming to operate sustainably in London. With various firms offering overlapping services, it’s essential to evaluate them based on specific credentials and capabilities.
Industry Experience
Experience within your sector can significantly affect how well an environmental firm understands your specific challenges. For instance:
- Construction companies may require expertise in site contamination and EIA regulations.
- Manufacturers might need specialists in emissions control and hazardous waste handling.
- Retail or corporate offices benefit from firms that offer energy audits and net-zero planning.
Look for companies that have case studies or published success stories in your field.
Certifications
A reputable environmental company should hold relevant certifications that indicate quality assurance and regulatory compliance. These include:
- ISO 14001 – Environmental Management Systems
- ISO 9001 – Quality Management
- ISO 45001 – Occupational Health & Safety
- BREEAM – Sustainable Building Certification
- IEMA Accreditation – For environmental professionals
These credentials are often available on a firm’s website or upon request.
Client Testimonials
Always check third-party review platforms such as:
- Google Business
- Trustpilot
- Clutch
- LinkedIn Recommendations
Feedback from previous clients provides insights into how responsive, thorough, and effective a company is. Don’t hesitate to ask for references or a project portfolio during your selection process.
What’s the Future of Environmental Companies in London?
As sustainability becomes more integral to business operations, environmental firms in London are evolving their roles. They’re no longer just compliance officers they’re innovation partners helping shape the next generation of green cities and industries.
Climate Tech Integration
Technologies such as Artificial intelligence(AI), machine learning, IoT sensors, and blockchain technology are being embedded into environmental services. These tools are helping companies:
- Predict emissions and energy usage
- Track environmental KPIs in real-time
- Automate regulatory reporting
The rise of data-driven sustainability means clients can see clearer ROI from environmental investments.
Circular Economy Focus
London’s environmental consultancies are pushing clients toward a circular economy model where waste is minimised, and materials are reused or recycled at the end of their lifecycle. This involves:
- Designing for disassembly
- Using recycled materials
- Extending product lifespan
These practices are particularly prominent in construction, fashion, and manufacturing industries.
Urban Sustainability Initiatives
Environmental companies are aligning with London’s Smart City agenda, which focuses on:
- Eco-mobility: Promoting cycling infrastructure, electric vehicles, and public transport.
- Green architecture: Assisting with sustainable building certifications.
- Biodiversity: Helping developments maintain green spaces and support urban wildlife.
Their involvement in planning and infrastructure decisions ensures that environmental impact is a top priority in city development.
Conclusion
Environmental companies in London are much more than regulatory advisors they’re innovation partners driving long-term change. From helping businesses meet compliance requirements to developing net-zero strategies and leveraging smart technology, these firms are central to achieving both private and public sector sustainability goals.
Whether you run a local business or a multinational with operations in the UK, working with a certified and experienced environmental firm is not just an investment in compliance. it’s a commitment to a greener, smarter, and more sustainable future for London.
FAQs About Environmental Companies in London
What’s the typical cost of hiring an environmental consultant in London?
Costs vary based on the scope, but typically range from £1,000 to £10,000 per project.
Are environmental services regulated in the UK?
Yes, environmental services are regulated by bodies like the Environment Agency and require compliance with laws such as the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
Can small businesses benefit from hiring environmental companies?
Absolutely. Even small businesses can reduce costs, improve compliance, and attract eco-conscious customers.
What certifications should a good environmental firm have?
Look for ISO 14001, ISO 9001, BREEAM certifications, and accreditation by IEMA.
Do environmental companies in London offer remote consulting?
Yes, many offer virtual services including audits, training, and sustainability planning.
What sectors use environmental companies the most?
Construction, energy, manufacturing, and real estate industries are top clients.
How can environmental firms help achieve net zero?
They develop carbon reduction strategies, conduct audits, and implement offsetting plans.