Green awards launched
THE 20TH annual Shetland Environment Awards have been launched with an invitation from organisers Shetland Amenity Trust for environmental projects to apply for the accolades.
Private business, community groups, schools, youth projects, individuals or larger organisations are encouraged to apply if they have completed an environmental project during 2008.
The awards aim to acknowledge projects that demonstrate sustainability, innovation and best practice in the conservation and enhancement of Shetland’s environment. While there are no specific categories, nominations may come from projects associated with recycling and waste management, the built environment, habitat creation and land stewardship, prevention of litter and pollution, heritage and culture and environmental improvement and awareness.
Last year’s winners included community clean-ups, sustainable design of new buildings, waste minimisation projects, development of a community garden, recycling projects and best practice in waste management.
This year’s awards have again attracted the sponsorship of organisations and agencies throughout Shetland with an environmental remit including SEPA, SNH, the SIC, the RSPB, Shetland Civic Society, VisitShetland and the amenity trust.
Environment project officer Mick Clifton said it was the fourth year running that all major players in the environment sector had joined forces in the partnership approach to encourage projects to apply for an award and to be recognised for their environmental commitment and achievements.
He said: “Each year we have a high number of entries from many organisations, individuals and community groups throughout Shetland who have undertaken a wide range of environmental projects.
“The awards themselves are highly sought after and raise the profile of their particular project while recognising the environmental benefits.”
New sections of the application form include the opportunity for projects to supply photographs, give information on benefits to the environment or community and to detail their project in more depth.
The closing date is noon on Monday 20th October with the awards presented in early December. For further details and an application pack from Shetland Amenity Trust, Garthspool, Lerwick or email mick@shetlandamenity.org
