Rewards for environmental work

Bay of Plenty people who are working for a better environment may soon be rewarded for their efforts.

Environment Bay of Plenty’s Environmental Awards, which open for nominations on Monday 1 August, celebrate the work being done to improve and protect the environment.

Group manager of community relations, Bruce Fraser, says hundreds – if not thousands - of people all over the region are putting “huge amounts of effort” into what is often voluntary work. They might be involved in environmental education, coastal planting or a land-based project involving pest control work. “Unfortunately they often go fairly unacknowledged. These awards are a way we can all celebrate what is happening.” Last year, the event attracted more than 30 entries from all over the Bay of Plenty.

The award system has three main categories, for individuals, community groups, and educational organisations, with up to three awards in each section. Winners will receive up to $1000. A new category brought in last year is for outstanding actions that exceed Environment Bay of Plenty’s consent and compliance requirements. Environment Bay of Plenty staff nominate entrants for this category.

Entries close on Friday 26 August, “so don’t delay or you may miss out”, Mr Fraser says. You can enter yourself, your own group or education organisation – or you can nominate others. “It’s pretty easy - just fill in the entry form, attach supporting photographs and evidence, and send it in to us.” Entry forms are available from Environment Bay of Plenty offices or by calling 0800 ENV BOP (368 267) or on www.envbop.govt.nz.

ENDS

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