LivCom environmental awards 2010 heads to 'Windy City'

Organisers of the International Awards for Liveable Communities (LivCom) have announced that the 2010 Awards Finals will also be hosted by Chicago, USA.

Following the success of LivCom 2009, which was held in the Czech Republic city of Pilsen, the 2010 finals (to be held from 4th to 8th November) cross the Atlantic to the state of Illinois.

Chicago boasts a record of environmental leadership in the USA and the cityâs Mayor, Richard M Daley, has set out key pledges to tackle climate change.

Speaking at the launch of his Chicago Climate Action program, Mayor Daley spoke of his ambition for the city, "early on in my administration, I made a commitment to enhance our environment and make Chicago the most environmentally friendly city in the nation. When I became Mayor, 'climate change' wasn't on the radar for most cities, states and nations around the world - or even for most people.

"But I believed then and believe even more deeply today that when you do such things as planting trees and creating open space, when you invest resources to remove pollution from the air and encourage the construction of buildings that are smart for the environment, then you enhance quality of life for all the residents of the city."

Alan Smith, founder and Chief Executive of LivCom, added "Chicago is recognised around the world as a leader in protecting our environment. Mayor Daleyâs objectives match closely those of LivCom in seeking to bring about environmental changes that will have a cumulative impact on the planet as well as benefiting local communities.

"I am delighted that Chicago is hosting the 2010 LivCom. Coming after Copenhagen, this will be an important year for these awards in demonstrating civic capacity to tackle global challenges."

The LivCom Awards were launched internationally in 1997 and are endorsed by the United Nations Environment Program and the scheme is run as a UK Registered Charity.

LivCom Awards are made in three categories covering Whole City, Sustainable Projects and a Bursary Award which sees match funding of £10,000 go to the winning project. Last yearâs winner in this category was Chrudim, Czech Republic for the regeneration of a recreation area.

To take part in the awards, communities need to register by 31st May 2010 and contribute written submissions by 30th June. Initial judging will take place during the (northern) summer before the announcement of this yearâs finalists.

The City of Melville in Western Australia was a gold winner at the 2009 Awards. The city was chosen out of 11 finalists in the Whole of City category for local government areas with a population of 75,000 to 100,000. The City of Rockhampton picked up a bronze award.

For details contact +44 118 946 1680, E: info@livcomawards.com, www.livcomawards.co.uk 

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