A NEW award scheme which celebrates those protecting, restoring, and enhancing the West Midlands’ natural environment is now open for nominations.
Set up by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), the Natural Environment Awards will showcase the region’s good practice on this important issue and recognise organisations who are caring for local green spaces.
Community groups, businesses, local authorities, and educational institutions are all eligible for their good work throughout the year.
Judges will be looking for proven commitment and enthusiasm for preserving and creating green spaces in the West Midlands and how it helps the region reach the goal of achieving net zero by 2041.
It is hoped that the awards will also inspire new projects and increase awareness about the importance of preserving the natural environment.
Nominations are open until January 2023 and the winners will be announced at an awards ceremony by West Midlands Mayor, Andy Street, in March.
Councillor Ian Courts, WMCA portfolio lead for energy and environment and leader of Solihull Council, said: “We’re fortunate in the West Midlands for the incredible breadth of environmental and conservation work that takes place.
“We all have a duty to look after where we live and protect our vital green spaces.
“Through these awards, the efforts of passionate community groups, businesses, local authorities and educational institutions will receive the recognition they rightly deserve.
“Please do apply if you’ve been involved with a project that meets the criteria as your story will help to inspire others.”
Applications for the awards will only be open for organisations who are within the seven constituent authorities of the WMCA.
To apply and find out more information, visit the WMCA website.
