Harrison "Jack" Schmitt was the first person initially trained as a scientist to walk on the moon. Originally a geologist, he was selected by NASA in June 1965 along with a group of other scientist-astronauts – the first group not to be test pilots.

Christopher Swainston will deliver a brief overview of the Environmental field, i.e. Where it can take you; why we do it & where it comes from.

The talk goes on to explain some of the issues that can be associated with sampling, modelling and investigating various different media and sites. Chris will describe practical examples and advice from his near 30 years working in this area across the UK.This experience started when he was a sample technician (soils, water, asbestos, stacks and wastes).

Over subsequent years, Chris progressed to become a respected professional in the industry, building his expertise through self-development and exposure to complex environmental challenges in practice.

Chris came into Geology at Portsmouth Polytechnic by accident during UKAS clearing having been denied the opportunity to study the subject at school.His interest in Geology stems from his grandfather who was a scientific officer for British Coal in Doncaster.This interest was promoted by living in, and as a younger man, climbing over, one of the most interesting geological areas of the country.

After graduating during the worst period for geology jobs in 30 years he went on to do a PGCE in Geology, Balanced Science and Chemistry, supply teaching and various other temporary jobs before securing a position at Claytons in 1994.

Starting as a sampling and laboratory technician he has progressed into contaminated land site investigation, monitoring and reporting including works for the Environment Agency and for some of the largest remediation projects in the UK.