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Beach Buddies win national award

Founder says the Island sets a 'world standard'

A local environmental group has received a major award at a national ceremony in London.

Beach Buddies won one of five accolades from Energy Globe, in recognition of the charity's achievements and its emphasis on sustainability and education in schools.

The ceremony took place this week in London’s embassy district at the offices of one of the award sponsors - Advantage Austria - the trade promotion organisation of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber.

Five members of the charity attended the event, led by founder Bill Dale who said this was a “landmark moment” for Beach Buddies.

Mr Dale says: "We have won awards on the Isle of Man previously, including from former Prime Minister Theresa May, and we very much appreciate every single award we have won. However, the Energy Globe Award is something very special and gives the Island international acclaim. 

"Every single person who has supported Beach Buddies over the last 18 years, and everyone who has picked up litter anywhere on our Island should be proud of what we have all achieved together. 

"The Isle of Man has set a world standard in beach cleaning, and one of the unexpected bonuses has been to see how all of the Island - not just the beaches - has been transformed since we started.

"This is international recognition at a very high level for what the people of the Isle of Man have done."

The Energy Globe Award annually acknowledges sustainable projects in the fields of environment and energy. 

The awards are given at both national and international levels. 

With over 180 participating countries, it's currently the world’s largest environmental prize.

Find out more here.

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