Sustainable Energy Innovators: 2006 Part 5 of 10

Getting us to stop wasting energy and instead choose sustainable ways of living is a daunting task. But it's what the Ashden Trust for Sustainable Energy is committed to.

It rewards schemes that show renewable energy products working for the community - whether it's using solar energy, biogas or any other form of energy that doesn't endanger the environment.

It rewards schemes that show renewable energy products working for the community - whether it's using solar energy, biogas or any other form of energy that doesn't endanger the environment.

In 2006 its annual UK awards featured projects in Northumberland, Yorkshire, London and elsewhere, all dedicated to sustainable living and development.

An environmentally friendly primary school in Durham is leading the way in efficiency by not only utilising a wealth of energy-saving measures, but educating and involving its pupils in the running of the scheme.

In Gloucestershire, the "Warm and Well" scheme promotes the health benefits of energy efficiency in the home, and assists homeowners along every step to making their home warmer, and more energy efficient.

In Huddersfield, two estates are in competition, to see which can outdo the other in solar panels. Solar power is proving a boon for the residents who are seeing a reduction in electricity bills, as well as the overall effects of reduced carbon emissions.

The "Good Energy Home Generation" scheme in Wiltshire pays its residents to generate energy using wind, hydro and solar power. Across the country, home generation schemes will have saved 200 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.

Barnsley, once the heart of Yorkshires coal mining industry, is now becoming the country's leader in biomass technology by installing wood fired burners in its new buildings and council flats.

The Ashden Trust also wants to persuade policy makers, funders, organisations and individuals to recognise renewable energy and energy efficiency as a crucial tool for addressing the urgent environment issues the world faces.

The awards were created in 2001 by Sarah Butler-Sloss of the Ashden Trust, one of the Sainsbury Family Charitable Trusts.

Category:

Film & Animation

Tags:

• Biotechnology
• Deforestation/forests
• Economics
• Energy
• Environment education
• Housing & shelter
• Sustainable consumption
• Water resources