Suggest a candidate for the sustainable development recognition award by 30 October

The Environment Office of the Oulu Region will grant a special recognition award to a local operator for successful promotion of sustainable development.

The recipient of the 2026 award will be selected based on nominations submitted by residents. Anyone may submit a nomination anonymously. Nominations can be submitted until Friday, 30 October 2026, using this form.

The recipient may be an organization, community, association, private individual or other actor operating within the area of the Environment Office of the Oulu Region. The area includes Hailuoto, Kempele, Liminka, Lumijoki, Muhos, Oulu and Tyrnävä.

In 2026, the recognition will be awarded in honor of the European Capital of Culture year to an actor that has promoted sustainable development through culture and/or art. The assessment will emphasize activities that have strengthened people's relationship with nature and increased appreciation of nature. Particular merit will be given to activities whose legacy extends beyond the Capital of Culture year and encourages people to build a sustainable future together. The award is worth EUR 3,000 and may be shared between several actors if the recognised activity has been carried out jointly.

"Strengthening people's relationship with nature is important in building a sustainable future. During the European Capital of Culture year, nature has had a prominent role in culture and art, and we want to highlight these operators in support of a lasting legacy," says Environmental Director Leena Tuuri.

The board of the Environment Office of the Oulu Region will select the award recipient at its December meeting. The award will be presented in the beginning of 2027. The award has been granted every other year since 1999.