Individuals will now have the chance to be honoured for being kind to the environment, as nominations for the National Environment Agency's (NEA) annual EcoFriend Awards open on Monday.

The award, which is now in its eighth year, will recognise the environmental contribution of individuals and encourage them to inspire and influence others to play a part in protecting the environment.

One of the previous award winners, Ms Lim Bin, a teacher, did so for instance by spearheading green programmes at her school, Woodgrove Secondary. She also helped groom young environmentalists.

"A sustained, clean environment is the best gift we can leave for our future generations." said Ms Lim, who won in 2008.

The award recognises individuals from a range of backgrounds, from the private sector to educational institutions as well as non-governmental organisations. While the award does not come with prize money, winners get the honour of being an EcoFriend Award recipient.

Organisers are looking for people who have made a positive impact on the environment by doing things such as starting or taking part in sustained green programmes or contributing to conservation efforts without personal gain.

Said Mr Tan Wee Hock, director of 3P (People, Private and Public) Network Division at NEA, "Some individuals go the extra mile to rally others to join them in their efforts which is highly commendable."

Nominations are open for eight weeks and will close on April 25.

These can be submitted by completing the nomination form at http://app2.nea.gov.sg/ecofriend or via email to ecofriend@star-horizon.com. Forms can also be posted to EcoFriend Awards Nominations at 777 North Bridge Road, Level 2, S197745 or via fax to +65 6884 9482.