The judges will select someone who is a leader in their field, who has made an outstanding and lasting contribution to advancing sustainability, energy efficiency and net zero initiatives in East Anglia.

The winner could be from any sector and will have a proven track record of setting high environmental standards, driving real change and inspiring others, not just within their own organisation or community but across the whole region.

The sponsor of the Clean & Green Champion Award is ScottishPower Renewables (SPR), which is delivering ScottishPower’s offshore wind farms in the southern North Sea off East Anglia.

ScottishPower is part of the Iberdrola Group – one of the world’s largest integrated utility companies and a world leader in wind energy.

“We’re looking for someone who is really leading by example,” said Ross Ovens, UK offshore managing director for SPR. “The Clean & Green Champion will be someone whose actions help to motivate and inspire others, and who has shown dedication and commitment.

“Above all, whatever their area of work, we hope to see how their efforts are creating lasting positive change for communities and future generations in the region.”

Ross Ovens, UK offshore managing director at ScottishPower Renewables (Image: ScottishPower Renewables)

Beyond simply walking the walk, the winner should demonstrate a deep understanding of sustainable practices, renewable energy, or environmental policy.

They will also have spearheaded multiple initiatives, projects or innovations that showcase leadership in sustainable thinking, or have delivered measurable environmental benefits.

“Any champion at the forefront of driving change has to develop new ways of working and thinking,” explained Ross, “As innovation is a key component in how we reach a cleaner, greener future.”

At the heart of this award is recognition for someone whose forward‑thinking efforts have created meaningful impact across East Anglia; this could include community projects, education, infrastructure improvements or environmental restoration.

“It’s fantastic to see evidence of the real ripples that potential champions are making in the region,” said Steve Hodger, SPR’s category judge and head of operations and maintenance for UK offshore.

Category judge Steve Hodger, head of operations and maintenance for UK offshore at SPR (Image: ScottishPower Renewables)

He added that he is eager to learn more about the local heroes that are “helping to build an amazing culture” within their business or community, and “supporting others advancing in their careers as well as their own.”

That emphasis on lifting others up mirrors another key element of the award: preparing the next generation for the future through training, mentoring, outreach or workforce development, to build skills and capacity for a sustainable future.

“It’s a tough category,” said Steve, “and I look forward to seeing the winner named on the night.”

For more information on all of the finalists, click here.

To find out more about the East Anglia Clean & Green Awards and buy tickets to the celebration event on March 26, please visit the website: cleanandgreenawards.co.uk

© Eastern Daily Press