ERCS is a member-led organisation – but what does this look like in practice?
As our supporter network continues to grow, we wanted to share our picture of what groups make up our supporters and membership, and how each of them contributes to our shared vision of a Scotland where every person’s right to a healthy environment is respected, protected and fulfilled.
Supporters
Supporters are the largest group, and they contribute by keeping up to date with ERCS’s work, attending events and responding to our calls to action.
Join: If you are interested in how we can use law to defend the environment, join us as a supporter and encourage others to do so by signing up to our mailing list.
Members
Our formal members proactively support our charitable purposes, mission and values by raising awareness of ERCS’s work. Members have important powers under our Constitution including who governs ERCS by electing our trustees.
Join: Anyone living in Scotland and over 16 can apply to be a member for free and applications are approved by trustees. Find more information about our membership.
Associates
Associates are members who are invited to offer their experience and expertise to support ERCS’s work programmes, acting as ‘critical friends’ and extending our connections across civil society and policy sectors.
Join: Associates are nominated and elected by our Trustees. See our current associates.
Environmental Justice Network (EJN)
The Environmental Justice Network are local activists. The peer network shares knowledge and experiences from their campaigns and supports ERCS to identify gaps in the enforcement of environmental regulations, raise awareness of the barriers to environmental justice and campaign for reforms.
Join: Applications are open to clients of ERCS’s advice service and approved by the Network.
Trustees
ERCS’s Board of Trustees is the smallest group of our membership with the most responsibilities. It is made of up to 12 members who provide effective governance for ERCS and are responsible for ensuring the organisation works to achieve its charitable purposes and mission and adheres to our Constitution.
Join: Find out more about what the role involves in our trustee recruitment pack. Trustees are elected by our members at the Annual General Meeting.
