Nick Smith

Thirteen organisations from across New Zealand have tonight been honoured at the 20th annual Green Ribbon Awards, for making an outstanding contribution to protecting the environment.

"These awards recognise those who are taking practical action to deal with environmental challenges such as climate change, water quality, biodiversity and waste," Environment Minister Dr Nick Smith said.

"I congratulate all the winners and finalists for going the extra mile to protect and enhance New Zealand's environment."

The award categories this year reflect the Government's environmental priorities and the many different areas in which New Zealanders contribute to reducing impacts on the environment.

The supreme winner was Kaharoa Kokako Trust for its impressive predator control efforts and their significant role in the national kokako recovery programme. Based in the Bay of Plenty, the Trust has increased the number of kokako from 12 pairs when they started in 1997 to an impressive 121 adults in 2006.

The other 2010 winners are:

Banks Peninsula Conservation Trust for its work with landowners to conserve biodiversity on private land

Landcare Research for its efforts in reducing greenhouse gas levels through the carboNZero programme

Waitakere City Council for improving streams and waterways in Auckland through the successful Project Twin Streams

Envirofert Limited for diverting large quantities of waste from landfill by recycling organic waste into compost

Sleepyhead Manufacturing Company Limited for its new technology allowing for environmentally-sound manufacturing

Sustainable Coastlines Incorporated for its projects that help improve coastal environments

Hukanui Primary School for its eco-classroom - planned, designed and built by the students

Environmental Education for Resource Sustainability Trust (EERST) for increasing recycling rates and environmental awareness in schools

Splashroom Limited for inspiring action on environmental issues through filmmaking

The New Zealand Wine Company Limited for making quality wine with minimal environmental impact

Resene Paints Limited for producing environmentally friendly paint products

Palmerston North City Council for its successful resource recovery centre

"This country is only as wealthy as the talent of its people. The Green Ribbon Awards are an opportunity for the Government to acknowledge the exceptional contribution New Zealanders are making to ensuring that our environment is looked after," Dr Smith said.