A new council award scheme is set to recognise and encourage eco-friendly buildings.

Malvern Hills District Council (MHDC) is embracing the green initiative in hopes of transitioning to a more sustainable future.

The award, known as The Malvern Hills Greener Places Award, will identify and acknowledge schemes that are not just environmentally friendly, but are also focusing on sustainable practices in the district.

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It's open to built developments ranging from singular buildings to extensive developments, and can even encompass beneficial land management and biodiversity enhancements with supporting infrastructure like renewable energy or transport being considered.

The council states that projects contributing to a sustainable and climate resilient future in Malvern district would be eligible, particularly those addressing energy efficiency, the adoption of low carbon heating systems, and the improvement of biodiversity and habitats.

Cllr John Raine, portfolio holder for environmental services at the council, said: "We are encouraging applications for buildings, developments and land that make a positive environmental impact to the Malvern Hills district.

"The scheme meets several of our council priorities around reducing carbon emissions, renewable energy, and improving the quality of the built and natural environment".

To ensure a fair assessment, applications can be submitted throughout the year by people or organisations directly involved in the projects or through a nomination by external bodies.

The council itself may also identify deserving projects.

Awards will be granted based on individual merits, with the final verdict made by the council’s Environment Policy Development Panel.

Cllr Mark Driscoll, chair of the environmental panel at the council, said: "The aim of the awards is to provide case study examples of what is possible to achieve across our district and encourage others to do the same.

"Whether it is the introduction of a wildflower meadow or installing energy-saving measures, please send in an application today".

The Malvern Hills Greener Places Award was officially approved by the executive committee just over a year ago, on January 23, 2023.

For further information on the award criteria, visit www.malvernhills.gov.uk/greener-places-award.