Who deserves an environmental award?

Nominations are sought for the 2011 Taranaki Regional Council Environmental Awards.

Now in their 19th year, the annual awards recognise outstanding environmental contributions by businesses, the agricultural sector, individuals, schools and community groups. There have been 168 winners since 1993.

Taranaki Regional Council Chairman David MacLeod says it's vital to recognise and reward positive environmental efforts.

"In Taranaki we enjoy generally healthy rivers, a rich landscape, clean air, and a quality coastal environment, but this is not simply by good luck," he says.

"Maintaining the quality of our environment requires the combined effort of all those who use it - from school children, farmers and communities to our major industries."

Nominations close on 31 March 2011 and 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 online — see www.trc.govt.nz/environmental-awards/ for details.