Labour and Greens dominate Political Purpose Awards
Energy transition, efforts to stop the sewage pollution crisis, and the Climate & Nature Bill were all commended at last night’s ceremony, while Rishi Sunak’s Wooden Spoon was accepted on his behalf.
The Political Purpose Awards took place at the House of Commons yesterday, Tuesday 3rd September, honouring members of Parliament contributions to positive social and environmental change.
Ruth Jones, Labour MP for Newport West and Islwyn, was commended for work in animal welfare. Baroness Jones of Moolsecoomb, the only Green Party politician in the House of Lords, was handed the Rivers & Seas Award, while Habitats, Biodiversity and Green Space went to Headingly, Leeds, Labour MP Alex Sobel.
The ULEZ expansion in London secured Mayor Sadiq Khan the prize for Pollution, Waste and Air, and current Energy Secretary Ed Miliband received an accolade for Green Energy and Renewables just two months into office. Lord Deben, a well-known Conservative environmentalist who was Chair of the Climate Change Committee, was given a Lifetime Achievement Award.
‘This award is a great encouragement. None of us must give up fighting to restore this amazing planet from the damage done to it by ignorance, self-regard, and greed,’ Lord Deben said.
One local authority was commended, with Kirklees Council winning Green Council of the Year Award. Meanwhile, former-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was the Wooden Spoon recipient. The category was introduced for 2024’s ceremony, spotlighting ‘climate obstructers’ seen to have impeded environmental progress.
‘At a time when Britain and the world faces unprecedented environmental challenges, it’s important to recognise and celebrate the politicians who are making a difference. The Political Purpose Awards spotlight the leaders who are making a tangible difference,’ said Dale Vance OBE, Founder of Ecotricity and a member of the judging panel.
‘It’s inspiring to see figures like Ed Miliband and Sadiq Khan driving meaningful change and Lord Deben’s lifelong commitment to the environment is a powerful reminder that political will is crucial in our journey towards a sustainable future,’ he continued. ‘These awards are not just about honouring achievements – they’re about inspiring continued action and leadership in the critical years ahead.’
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Image: Political Purpose Awards