The Department of Environment and Conservation, in partnership with Newfoundland and Labrador Women�s Institutes (NLWI) and the Multi Materials Stewardship Board (MMSB), is seeking nominations for the 18th Annual Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Awards.

"The Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Awards recognize our environmental accomplishments and celebrate our environmental leaders," said the Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Environment and Conservation. "I encourage all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to nominate an individual or group that has made a difference in their community, school or workplace by protecting and enhancing our environment or natural heritage."

The environmental awards will be given in six categories: Individual (19 years or older); Community Group or Organization; Youth, Youth Group or School (18 years or younger); Municipality or Regional Waste Management Committee; Business or Industry Leader; and Lifetime Achievement. Winners will be recognized for their accomplishments at the Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Awards ceremony during Canadian Environment Week June 3 - 9.

"We should be proud of all the efforts being taken in our province by individuals and groups to preserve the environment and the MMSB welcomes this opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate their accomplishments," said John Scott, Chair and CEO of MMSB. "We are honoured to be involved in this initiative and to provide each winner with a $1,000 honorarium to be used to further their environmental project or donated in their name to an environmental organization or cause."

"The Newfoundland and Labrador Women's Institutes take pride in being involved in the annual provincial environmental awards program," said Shirley Fraize, NLWI President. "We are all becoming increasingly aware of the need to protect our environment and preserve our natural heritage for future generations."

The Women�s Institutes urges everyone to spread the message and encourage citizens by recognizing and nominating those who have proved their individual and collective commitment in this regard.

For further information or to obtain a nomination form, contact Tina Coffey at 709-729-5783 or visit the Department of Environment and Conservation Web site at //www.gov.nl.ca/env/whatsnew.asp. The deadline for nominations is May 7.

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Media contact:
Diane Hart
Director of Communications
Department of Environment and Conservation
709-729-2575, 685-4401
dianehart@gov.nl.ca