Environment Awards search is on for best eco-friendly companies

Entries are being invited from firms, schools, community groups and individuals committed to improving their local environment and thinking innovatively to reduce their carbon footprint and tackle climate change.

The editor of the Yorkshire Post, Peter Charlton, said the awards had gone from strength to strength since they were launched in 2009.

There are 11 categories to enter this year, recognising everything from grassroots community projects and environmental start-ups to the best green product manufacturers and eco-building developments.

There is also a coveted Green Champion award for the individual most dedicated to making a difference – last year won by Dr Graham Cooley, chief executive of hydrogen technology firm ITM Power – as well as the ultimate accolade of Environmental Business of the Year, which went to St Stephen’s Shopping Centre in Hull in 2012.

This year’s winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at the Queen’s Hotel in Leeds in June. Energy and Climate Change Secretary Ed Davey, who will be the keynote speaker at the event, said green growth and jobs were his “absolute priority” and there had never been a better time for businesses to invest in low carbon energy. Main sponsor Yorkshire Water, which is backing the sought-after Environmental Business of the Year award, said it welcomed the opportunity to recognise the shining environmental stars of the north.

Renewable energy specialist Banks Group, Leeds-based supermarket Asda, energy provider Northern Gas Networks, and law firm Dickinson Dees are also each sponsoring a category.

The deadline for entries is on May 11 and judging will take place in the week that follows, carried out by a panel including representatives from each sponsor and chaired by the Yorkshire Post.

A shortlist of nominees will then be announced on May 18 ahead of the ceremony on June 12.

Full details are on www.yorkshirepost.co.uk