Bocholt awards prize for sustainability for the first time

The city of Bocholt is awarding a prize for sustainability for the first time. The prize is intended to honour Bocholt-based companies, associations and initiatives that are committed to sustainable structures in an exemplary manner in the areas of climate, social affairs or business. The prize is intended to honour and at the same time encourage others to follow suit. The award will be presented for the first time this year for projects that were implemented or initiated in 2023.

Doers and makers were in demand! Whether alone or in a group, as a class, club or company. Initiatives that dealt with the topic of sustainability in 2023 could apply informally. The jury defined in the guidelines will deliberate on the applications received. Information can be obtained from the city of Bocholt on 02871 953 1295. 31 December 2023 was the closing date for entries.

Alternatively, applications could also be submitted by third parties who have nothing to do with the respective measure themselves.

Council adopts directive

At the end of 2022, the city council adopted a " guideline for the awarding of the Sustainability Prize of the City of Bocholt". The prize is to be awarded every two years, starting with the first award ceremony in 2024.

"The City of Bocholt Sustainability Award is presented for innovative ideas, concepts and projects that successfully combine social, economic and ecological factors in an exemplary manner to create sustainable solutions", emphasised the City Council in its decision. Entries are assessed on the basis of various criteria, such as their local connection to the city or their benefit to the general public.

At least two of the three pillars of sustainability should be addressed. We were looking for longer-term measures, not one-off actions, that contribute to the conservation of resources, have an economic benefit or promote social and cultural engagement in the city.

What contribution does the idea make to the sustainable development of Bocholt? In what way does it serve as a model for others? The answers to these questions should be highlighted.

Mayor Thomas Kerkhoff

The Jury

In the first quarter of 2024, a jury will deliberate on the submitted applications and award a winning project. The jury consists of the chairpersons of the political committees "Economy and Tourism", "Environment and Green" and "Labour, Health, Equality & Social Affairs", a representative of the Westphalian University of Applied Sciences, a media representative and a representative of the main sponsor, Bocholter Energie- und Wasserversorgung (BEW).

The first prize is endowed with 5,000 euros. In addition, as a sign of sustainability, a tree will be planted in the city for the winning project.