[Source: Suffolk County Council].

Creating the Greenest County Awards 2023 launched

The Creating the Greenest County Awards return for a 12th time to celebrate the achievements of Suffolk’s residents, businesses, schools, communities and organisations who are protecting our environment and reducing their carbon emissions.

Nominations are now open online and close on 1 February 2023, with an environmentally-friendly ceremony to be held in March.

As Suffolk continues to work together in pursuit of being net zero by 2030, the Awards recognise those who are connecting with people, sharing best practice and collaborating to help make Suffolk the greenest county.

To go alongside awards such as Greenest Business, Greenest School and Enhancing Biodiversity and Landscape, this year a new category has been introduced – The Greenest Tourism Award.

This Award recognises the good work being done across the county by the numerous organisations in this vital sector, from visitor attractions to accommodation providers.

Suffolk County Council organises the Awards, Councillor Richard Rout, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Environment, said:

“The Awards celebrate those doing amazing things to protect our environment in Suffolk. Following COP27, the challenge posed by climate change is in sharp focus but it’s also the financial climate that is a concern for us all.

“We must continue making significant changes to the way we live, by protecting our natural environment, reducing carbon emissions, making homes more efficient, and reducing our energy and water use. By doing this, we save money on our bills – it’s the right thing to do for our planet and for our pockets.

“Our Award winners will be inspiring people who are reducing their energy costs and reducing their impact on the environment. No individual can solve the challenge of climate change on their own, but together we can make a real difference and avert a crisis which poses the biggest risk to the least well-off, both here at home and across the world.

“If you, your community or business are working hard towards net zero, please put yourself forward for an Award. Or if you know someone who is making a real difference, nominate them for an Award, so Suffolk can celebrate them and inspire others to follow their lead.”

One of the most popular categories, the Green Hero, will be returning; turning the spotlight on those individuals who have taken it upon themselves to lead the way in working for the environment. It’s the only award for which both the nominees and the winners are chosen by the public.

Nominations can be submitted online at www.greensuffolk.org/awards