Singapore to host United Nations International Environmental Awards - Champions of the Earth

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) today confirmed that Singapore will host the award ceremony of its premier environmental award – Champions of the Earth – in 2006.

The Champions of the Earth award, a new international environment award established in 2004, is presented annually by UNEP to outstanding environmental achievers and leaders. Award winners are selected from nominated individuals or groups who have made a significant and recognized contribution regionally and globally to the protection and sustainable management of the Earth’s environment and natural resources. Selected candidates are rewarded for their creativity, vision and leadership.

The awards will be presented in Singapore in April 2006 at a ceremony to be attended by well-known regional and international personalities and dignitaries. The event is supported by the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Singapore, (MEWR), and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB).

UNEP’s Executive Director, Klaus Toepfer, said in Nairobi, Kenya (where UNEP is headquartered), “UNEP is proud of this collaboration with Singapore which will recognize courageous men and women, from every corner of the globe, who fight for and protect the natural riches we have for too long taken for granted.”

“Singapore is a natural choice for such a global environmental event, as it is a country that has become an inspiration for other nations striving to achieve the goal of sustainable development. The fact that Singapore is also a leading international events hub makes Singapore an ideal location to host Champions of the Earth,” added Toepfer.

The event will also include a gala dinner honouring the recipients of the award, as well as parallel activities such as talks and a photo exhibition to highlight environmental awareness.

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