News release

For immediate release

Recognize environmental champions with a 2021 Environmental Award

Saanich, BC – Beginning on May 4, 2021, the Environment and Natural Areas Advisory Committee will begin accepting nominations for the 2021 Saanich Environmental Awards.

“For over 20 years, Saanich has recognized the contributions of individuals and organizations working toward a more sustainable future for our community and region,” said Councillor Rebecca Mersereau. “Today more than ever, it is vital to recognize the work of residents who are putting the environment first and helping to make our community the vibrant place we call home.”

Saanich Environmental Award categories:

• individual
• volunteer organization
• business
• youth (individual/youth group/school)
• biodiversity conservation (to recognize local conservation efforts towards a species, plant community, habitat or ecosystem)
• long-term environmental achievement (to recognize a lifetime of local environmental effort by an individual)
• sustainability (to recognize a local contribution towards sustainability, integrating environmental, social and economic values)

Past winners:

“As a young adult, I embraced Henry Fiedorowicz’s philosophy: ‘If we all light our own little candle, one day the world will have light.’ Volunteering has provided me with a specific way to do just that: by developing new skills, by stewarding our natural environment, and consequently by contributing to my community with thoughtful actions,” says Lori James Derry, winner of the 2020 Individual Achievement award. “By highlighting local resources and grassroots knowledge, we are regionally inclusive, accessible and responsive.”

Past recipients have been involved in projects such as invasive species removal, environmental education, native plant propagation, waste reduction and conservation on private property. Business awards have been given for sustainable developments and energy efficiency programs, among others.

Award eligibility:

You can nominate anyone as long as their environmental work impacts Saanich. Nominations must be submitted by the deadline of June 1, 2021 at 4 p.m., signed (submitted by paper) or by personal declaration (submitted online).

Full criteria and information on the nominations progress can be found at saanich.ca/enviroawards.                                                                                                      

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Media contact:
Rebecca Mersereau, Chair
Environment and Natural Areas Advisory Committee
250-532-0215