Who is your Green Hero in Suffolk?

It was an immensely proud moment for our entire group. No-one who cares for the environment, does so for reward. However, being recognised by Suffolk County Council in this prestigious ceremony has been very positive in terms of our connections to other groups, businesses and organisations.

It has certainly grown our network and it has been wonderful to see like-minded people proactively reaching out to Litter-Free Felixstowe to ask if they can help and support. It has undoubtedly aided publicity for the group and provided a renewed credibility for our work.

At our last litter-pick we attracted nearly 120 people and with large numbers attending, we can really make a difference. We are determined to get our major roads cleared of rubbish and last year launched ‘Litter-Free Roads & Lay-bys’ with the national hauliers.

It is vital that everyone works together to prevent littering by all road users - the message must be embedded in corporate and public culture, and we are working to roll out the Litter-Free pledge and include it in environment policies, corporate social responsibility statements and employee induction programmes.

We must also clear up the build-up of litter which already threatens our wildlife and working with Clean Up Britain, we hope to inspire local councils, and national government to respond to our campaign.

A nomination for a Creating the Greenest County Award will open doors and provide much needed encouragement for those who work tirelessly across Suffolk. Suffolk is a beautiful county, and we need to work together to protect it.

No one person can make a difference on their own; we need to inspire people to be part of the movement and educate the younger generation to become involved. There are good things happening but there is still so much to do.

Collaboration is essential if we are going to tackle climate change and plastic waste. We need to remember that everyone needs to contribute - this is about our planet and we each have a role to play.

Without amazing people like Debbie, net zero ambitions for Suffolk or the UK simply couldn’t be achieved. And not forgetting that Litter-Free Felixstowe’s work is also helping to protect and care for our wildlife. Debbie’s passion and inspiration has meant that over 1,200 people have joined her cause in and around Felixstowe alone.

The Creating the Greenest County Awards give Suffolk the opportunity to recognise other such dedicated people – please do tell us about anyone that you think is deserving of the Green Hero Award, I can’t wait to read the nominations and meet the winner at the ceremony next year.