Wicklow County Council is once again inviting community groups, Tidy Town groups, schools, Coastcare and sports groups, resident associations and other organisations to apply for our annual Sustainable Development Awards. Each year, we receive applications from across the county, showcasing the excellent work accomplished by community volunteers, organisations and our schools. The awards ceremony normally takes place in March and successful groups will receive a portion of a substantial prize fund.
The award categories are diverse, ranging from the Biodiversity, Wildlife & Amenities Award, which focuses on Sustainable Development Goals 13 (Climate Action) and 14 (Life Below Water), to the Farming Champion Award, which was introduced last year.
Wicklow County Council’s Cathaoirleach, Cllr. Melanie Corrigan, said that “the aim of the Sustainable Development Awards is to highlight best practices in environmental protection and sustainable development in harmony with our environment across County Wicklow. Through these awards, Wicklow County Council wishes to recognise, acknowledge and award the diverse range of groups and individuals engaged in environmental awareness, climate action, biodiversity restoration and built heritage projects.”
Theresa O’Brien, Director of Services for Climate, Environment, Recreation and Amenity, also stated that “the awards are linked to best practices in the National Tidy Towns Competition, which aims to help build more sustainable communities and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.”
In addition to the Sustainable Development Awards, Community, Tidy Towns, and Resident Associations can also enter our Tidy Main Street and Tidy Estates Awards. Blank entry forms have been emailed to groups and schools, and they are also available from the Environmental Awareness Office by emailing eao@wicklowcoco.ie
The closing date for group entries is 27th July 2025, while the deadline for schools is 8th September. Ideally, completed forms should be emailed to us, but hard copies can also be posted to County Buildings.
We wish everyone the best of luck!
IMAGERY
Picture: Carraig Glen, 2024 winners of the Tidy Estates award. Photo credit: Mick Kelly.