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Champions for Sustainable Communities Awards - Winners Announced PDF Print E-mail
Wednesday, 19 March 2008

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Forward Scotland’s first ever Champions for Sustainable Communities award winners were revealed at a special presentation ceremony at the Apex International Hotel in Edinburgh.

Public/Third Sector Champion is Helen Houston (51) a community development officer from Golspie, Sutherland who has been rewarded for her pivotal efforts in schemes such as the refurbishment of a community centre, provision of improved play facilities, the installation of renewable heating systems and the provision of family learning projects. Read more about Helen Houston.

Business Champion is Liz Stewart the founder of Invisible Heating Systems (IHS) in Ullapool who has been recognised for her efforts in providing free advice on renewables to the local community and guidance to local school children. Her company has also grown to become one of the largest employers in Ullapool and she has purchased land in order to provide quality, affordable, zero-carbon housing for local staff. Read more about Liz Stewart.


International Development Champion is Ian Mitchell (49) an employee of Scottish Natural Heritage from Invershin, Sutherland for his work teaching the community of Bohinj in Slovenia about the principles of sustainable development and protecting and utilising their natural environment. Read more about Ian Mitchell.


Community Group Champion
is Ian Leaver (45) from the Isle of Eigg, recognised for his fundraising and practical efforts as development co-ordinator for the Isle of Eigg Heritage Trust which led to the provision of renewable electricity to every home, business, and community building on the island. Read more about Ian Leaver.

The winners were presented with awards made by Scottish designer and craftsman, Scott Irvine, using wood from fallen trees and fused glass off-cuts, and the other 16 finalists received a well-earned certificate for their efforts. Winners will also get the chance to visit another sustainable community project or similar experience in order to give them further inspiration for their own locality. 

The organisation’s Frazer Scott said: “All 20 nominees were of an excellent calibre and should be proud of their valuable efforts towards sustainability. However there had to be four Champions in each category and we are delighted to announce Ian Mitchell, Liz Stewart, Helen Houston and Ian leaver as the best of the best. “At the heart of sustainable development lies the leadership and commitment to drive forward change. These awards were a great opportunity to honour individuals who have made a difference by improving the environment, economy and society. 

“All four winners have shown outstanding endeavour that proves it’s possible to really achieve a better quality of life for future generations. It’s the power of individuals, such as these, that can make a real difference, and we hope the Awards will inspire others to make positive changes in their own communities.” 

Edinburgh’s Apex International Hotel in the Grassmarket – chosen for its environmentally friendly credentials – hosted the event which proved to be a big success with all who attended.

The nation-wide awards were devised to recognise individuals from across society who have led the way in improving the quality of a local environment in some way – whether that’s helping solve a community problem, transforming a piece of land or derelict space, or reducing climate change impacts. 
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