The Observer Ethical Awards 2008

Russell Smith wins Observer Ethical Award 2008 – DIY

Russell Smith, Managing Director, Parity Projects Ltd, the only UK company solely dedicated to reducing energy and water consumption in existing housing stock, has won the DIY category at the Observer Ethical Awards 2008. Now in their third year, the awards are designed to reward those pioneering a sustainable future for the UK. The Do-It-Yourself award pays tributes to those who fight climate change and resource depletion on the home front. 

Russell won the DIY award for his Eco-Renovation demonstration project in Sutton, Surrey. Through assessing the energy consumption of his Victorian semi-detached house, built in 1870, and implementing the appropriate everyday eco solutions, Smith has achieved a 75% reduction in CO2 emissions and a 60% reduction in water consumption. The importance of sharing the experience/learning is at the heart of Smith’s ethics.

Russell says: “With 27% of all energy in the UK consumed in domestic housing and 85% of our existing housing stock set to still be with us in 2050, we all need to act now to reduce our carbon footprint, and reduce our energy bills. The real success of our Eco Renovation Demonstration project is that it proves that anyone can ‘green their home’ as we chose a very hard house to convert. I am delighted that our achievement and commitment to inspiring others to make the change has been recognised by the Observer Ethical Awards.”

Russell was selected as the winner of the award by an expert panel of judges comprised of the UK's most eminent environmental and social-justice professionals and enthusiasts. The judging panel included Trevor Baylis, inventor, Siân Berry, mayoral candidate of the Green Party, Julia Davenport, CEO, Good Energy, and Lucy Siegle, writer and Observer columnist, who presented Smith with his award.

Lucy Siegle, writer, The Observer, says: “Picking winners was no mean feat. In every category, shortlisted entrants had vociferous champions. In this, we were weighing up the merits of very successful campaign groups, businesses and projects alongside new, emerging ideas, solutions and designs. All panellists were alert to so-called greenwash. Ultimately we voted for the people, places and solutions who really meant it.” 

The judges said: “Russell and his company Parity Projects stood out from all the other nominations for their new way of engaging with the public, giving them the tools to reduce their house’s carbon footprint in an innovative and inspiring way.”

Link to the Award Video (YouTube)

Sustainable City Awards 2008

Runner up in the Sustainable Buildings category

The awards aim to recognise and reward best practice in this rapidly developing arena.  Entries are welcomed from business, public and voluntary sector organisations. Past winners include BT, The Berkeley Group, F&C Asset Management, Sainsbury’s, the London Cycling Campaign and HM Prison Services.                                                                                                          

 

Building Magazine 2007 Award for Sustainable Refurbishment

Parity Projects wins Building magazine 2007 Award for Sustainable Refurbishment

Link to Building Magazine Website Award Page

 

 

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