Time to think green and win

THE City of Greater Geelong has established a new awards program set to recognise community-led actions promoting environmental sustainability.

The Community Green Achiever Awards is currently open for nominations with a focus on celebrating those who protect the region’s environment and support biodiversity.

Nominations can be placed for projects, initiatives, activities or campaigns in which leadership, action or innovation is recognised.

The four award categories include the Climate Action Award, Waste Reduction Award, Biodiversity Award and Water Conservation Award.

Deputy mayor Trent Sullivan said the initiative awards program recognises the community’s responses to climate change.

“The awards will celebrate the innovative contributions being made at a grassroots level across Greater Geelong,” he said.

“Highlighting the great environmental sustainability work being done locally will hopefully encourage further action in this space.”

Councillor Jim Mason, chair of the environment portfolio, said the awards program is a reflection of the city’s transition to a green economy.

“Our Sustainability Framework and Action Plan highlights the vital role the community plays in helping us reduce our collective footprint,” he said.

“The Community Green Achiever Awards will showcase the clever and creative projects that are having positive impacts on our local environment.”

Council’s Sustainability Framework was designed in 2020 to address significant future challenges, such as climate change with an accompanying action plan outlines 66 actions to achieve the region’s key sustainability policy.

To be eligible for an award, the nominated project or campaign must have been delivered by volunteers or not-for-profit community organisations within Greater Geelong during the past 12 months.

Nominations are open until 5pm on April 30 with winners to be announced on World Environment Day.