This year’s prize was presented jointly to both David and fellow student, Malcolm Fraser, at the Albert Halls in Stirling on 23 November 2007.

David completed the MSc programme in Sustainable Development with distinction in September 2007. His dissertation involved undertaking a pilot study examining the potential for district heating from industrial waste heat at selected industry sites in Scotland. He now intends to pursue a career in the sustainable development field.

Graduating from the University of Strathclyde in 2002 with a BA degree in Psychology with First Class Honours, David has since gained a broad range of vocational experience in the private sector, including running his own business.  

During his time at Forward Scotland, David undertook valuable research into the links between sustainable development, health and wellbeing, culminating in a written paper, as well as carrying out useful work into scoping a future events programme.  

On his voluntary placement, David said:

"My time spent at Forward Scotland showed me how to put into practice the theory of sustainable development in a practical setting. I'm very grateful to the organisation for giving me the opportunity to contribute to their work, and would recommend a similar placement to anyone looking to gain some experience in this sector".

The award has been gifted by Professor James Curran who is the current Chairman of the Scottish Sustainable Development Forum.  Professor Curran, having originally studied physics and meteorology,  was initally Head of Science with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency, and then Head of Environmental Strategy with responsibilities for scenario planning, horizon scanning, research and development, climate change and energy, internal environmental management, and promotion of sustainable development.

For further details of this story, or information on volunteering at Forward Scotland, please contact Jenny.Hogan@Forward-Scotland.org.uk – tel. 0560 0010 560.