Nominations close soon for Environmental Awards

Nominations close at the end of the month for the 2008 Taranaki Regional Council Environmental Awards.



Now in their 16th year, the annual awards recognise outstanding environmental contributions by businesses, the agricultural sector, individuals, schools and community groups. Nominations must be made by 31 March.



Taranaki Regional Council Chairman David MacLeod says there has been a good range of nominations so far but there is always room for more.



There have been 121 award winners since 1993.



“We’ve recognised environmental champions in a wide variety of fields over the years. It’s important to mark the efforts that have helped Taranaki maintain healthy rivers, a rich landscape, clean air, and a quality coastal environment,” he says.



To qualify, projects must make a practical contribution to the sustainable management of the natural resources of the region, or promote community awareness of the need for sustainable management through a promotional or educational programme.



All the projects must be sustainable over time and not depend on a continuing subsidy larger than the benefit to the community. They must be current, ongoing or nearing completion, and be carried out in Taranaki.



There are three categories: Agricultural, business/local authority, and individual/school/community.



Nomination forms are available from the Taranaki Regional Council’s Senior Information Officer, Rusty Ritchie (phone 06 765 7127 or e-mail rusty.ritchie@trc.govt.nz). Nominations can also be made on-line at www.trc.govt.nz.