Local councils and schools working to protect and restore the environment have been invited to enter in a national awards program.

Nominations are soon closing for the United Nations Association of Australia World Environment Day Awards 2010.

The awards program recognises businesses, councils, individuals and community organisations, schools and the media working in the areas of environmental sustainability.

This year the program will include a new Department of Sustainability and Environment Biodiversity Award to recognise the best company, organisation, local government, community group or individual that has demonstrated innovation and excellence in the development and management of Australia’s biodiversity.

In support of the International Year of Biodiversity 2010 this year’s UN World Environment Day theme is ‘Many Specieis, One Planet, One Future’.
The awards program includes:"

WSP Lincolne Scott Sustainability Leadership Award
Award for environmental, social and commercial best practice program for business.

Szencorp Green Building Award
Best non-industrial building project that has demonstrated excellence in the implementation of innovative eco-sustainable solutions in our cities.

Virgin Blue Business Awards
Best specific environmental initiative; and environmental best practice program.

Department of Sustainability and Environment Biodiversity Award
Excellence in the development and management of Australia’s biodiversity, awarded in recognition of 2010 being the United Nations International Year of Biodiversity.

Meeting the Greenhouse Challenge Award
Excellence in the implementation of innovative strategies for greenhouse gas reduction.

Excellence in Marine and Coastal Management Award
Best company, organisation, community or individual that has demonstrated excellence in marine and coastal management.

Excellence in Sustainable Water Management Award
Best company, organisation, individual or community group that has demonstrated excellence in water management.

Education/Schools Award
Best school based project exploring environmental themes or issues.

Community Award
Best community based environmental project or initiative.

Individual Award
Outstanding service to the environment.

Local Government Awards
Excellence in overall environmental management; and best specific environmental initiative.

Media Award for Environmental Reporting
Excellence in environmental reporting.

Nominations close Friday 14 May. For more information, or to enter, visit www.unaavictoria.org.au.