I have some completely unexpected news to share, and honestly, it has left me feeling incredibly inspired about our local community. Recently, I attended the Environmental Champions Awards hosted by the Three Rivers District Council (TRDC), and I am absolutely thrilled to share that I came home with a Highly Commended award! To say I was surprised is an understatement. When you are focused on doing your bit for the planet, you don’t really think about accolades – so to be recognised in this way by our local council means the world to me.
But if I’m being completely honest, the highlight of the evening wasn’t the certificate itself. The real win is the fact that Three Rivers District Council has chosen to create, fund and host this awards competition in the first place.
The Real Win: A Council That Cares
In a world where environmental news can often feel heavy or overwhelming, our council took the time to step up and say, “We see you, we value you, and we want to cheer you on.”
By creating a platform specifically to support and recognise individuals, passionate young scholars, and small businesses, they are fostering a culture of hope and action right on our doorstep.
A Room Full of Hope
What did I gain from the evening? It was the perspective.
Looking around a beautifully filled room, at Watersmeet Theatre, Rickmansworth, I was struck by the sheer diversity of the people gathered together. There wasn’t just one “type” of environmentalist. The room was buzzing with people from all walks of life, all united by a shared love for our planet and our local area.
I sat there, looking around, and felt a massive wave of pride seeing:
- The Waste Warriors: People and small businesses innovating new ways to tackle recycling and reduce waste.
- The Protectors: Dedicated groups working tirelessly to care for our local wildlife and protect our beautiful nature reserves and chalk streams.
- The Fixers: Community heroes setting up repair cafés to keep items out of landfills and teach valuable life skills.
- The Future: Brilliant young scholars who are already leading the charge with fresh ideas and endless energy.
It was a powerful reminder that “going green” isn’t a solo journey. It’s a massive, beautiful web of micro-actions. While one person is planting trees, another is fixing a toaster, and a local business is changing its packaging and moving to renewable energy – and together, it all adds up to real, tangible change.
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Moving Forward
Leaving the awards, my heart was full. Knowing that we have such a vibrant, hard-working green community right here in Three Rivers – and a council dedicated to championing them – makes me incredibly optimistic for the future.
Thank you again to Three Rivers District Council for a wonderful evening, and a huge congratulations to all the winners and fellow nominees. We are all in this together!
Links:
Full TRDC Press Release Including information about each award winner HERE