EPA Victoria today congratulated The Nature Conservancy Australia, winners of the Healthy Environment – Industry Leader category at the 2021 Premier's Sustainability Awards.
Introduced in 2021, the Healthy Environment – Industry Leader category celebrates initiatives that protect or enhance Victoria's natural environment and aligns with the globally accepted United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. As the state's environmental regulator, protecting Victorians and our environment from the harmful effects of pollution, EPA is proud to sponsor this award.
EPA Victoria CEO Lee Miezis praised all 12 award winners of the prestigious awards for their leadership and innovation it what has been a challenging year.
"There have been some outstanding efforts in sustainability leadership and innovation this year, none more so than The Nature Conservancy Australia, who took out the Healthy Environment – Industry Leader category and Premier's Recognition Award," Mr Miezis said.
"The Nature Conservancy Australia's effort in restoring Victoria's natural environment is an iconic example of contribution to our circular economy and education and engagement with the community."
The Nature Conservancy Australia's Bringing Back Victoria's Lost Oyster Reefs project was designed to improve one of Victoria's most prized assets - Port Phillip Bay.
The initiative sought to restore one hectare of native oyster reef in Corio Bay, testing a new reef restoration methodology to determine the most effective methods for degraded reef ecosystems.
The project contributed to the circular economy, by transforming rubbish into reefs through the shell recycling program 'Shuck Don't Chuck', with over 415 tonnes of shells recycled by wholesalers, restaurants, markets, and craft bars.
Forty-four volunteers from 16 different groups were involved in the project, participating in multiple online Restore the Bay sessions, which aimed to educate the community about the benefits of shellfish reef restoration. To date, there have been six hectares of reefs restored at Port Phillip Bay.
The Premier's Sustainability Awards, now in their 19th year, celebrate the ongoing efforts of Victorians who are committed to improving sustainability across the state.
