July 8,2008

MEDIA STATEMENT

Recognising good resource management: entries for awards open now

It’s recognition time again for people caring for Canterbury's resources. Entries are now open for the Canterbury Resource Management Awards 2008.

The awards are presented by Environment Canterbury, every two years, to reward projects that promote sustainable management of natural and man-made resources.

Managing resources and caring for the environment can be a part of all kinds of activities, from individual initiatives to large-scale business processes, according to Environment Canterbury chairman Sir Kerry Burke.

"Whether you’re part of a large company or a small non-profit organisation, or on your own, you will probably find a section of the awards to suit your project,” he says.

Entries for four categories are invited from throughout the region, from Kaikoura District to the Waitaki catchment:

1 Community/Interest - for projects carried out by community or special interest groups
2 Commercial/Industrial - for projects carried out by commercial or industrial organisations.
3 Professional/Institutional - for projects carried out by professional groups
4 Individual - for projects carried out by one person.

"If you have any doubts about the eligibility of your project don’t hesitate to check with us. People should also take the opportunity to tell friends and colleagues, with relevant projects, about the awards," Sir Kerry says.

The awards are supported by the Crown research institutes, Landcare Research and NIWA (the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research), and the Sustainable Business Network, Te Runanga O Ngai Tahu and EECA (the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority). Each of these organisations contributes a special award.

Judges for all categories will be looking at the practicality and sustainability of entries. They will also take into account any consultation that has been carried out as well as the way the project affects other resources.

"There’s plenty of scope for all kinds of projects involving resource management," Sir Kerry says. "These might include work relating to air or water quality, soil conservation, preservation of natural areas, efficient regional transportation, pest management, rural and urban planning and civil defence."

Entries for the awards close on Friday, August 15. Further information on the awards is available on 03 353 9735, or toll free 0800 EC INFO (0800 324 636), or from www.ecan.govt.nz/rmawards

ENDS

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