Nominations are being sought for the 2009 WA Environment Awards that acknowledge Western Australians who have contributed to the protection, enhancement and sustainability of the State's environment.

Community groups, individuals, State and local government agencies and businesses wanting recognition for their environmental achievements are being encouraged to apply to the Department of Environment and Conservation by July 24, 2009.

The State's premier environmental awards embrace 11 main categories and as a proud sponsor SEDO invites nominations in the 'Community energy efficiency' division, awarded to a community group or local government authority for a significant contribution to energy efficiency.

Entry is free and nomination forms can be filled out online. Visit the Department of Environment and Conservation's website at www.dec.wa.gov.au/awards

Whether you are building, renovating or about to take the next to make your home more energy efficient then the SEDO pavilion at the Sustainable Energy Expo at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre is a must.

The vital theme at this year’s Expo is that “Energy Smart Homes Save Money” and the contemporary look SEDO display has the latest Energy Smart news to save you energy and dollars.

Nuts and Bolts Goes Green TV presenter David Moran is making special guest appearances each day at the Sustainable Energy Expo and join staff in providing invaluable advice on ways we can become more energy efficient.

The three-day Expo (Saturday 30 May to Monday 1 June) is where you can gain a better understanding of the benefits of home orientation, insulation, gas boosted solar hot water heating and the right energy saving appliances to buy.
 
The campaign to phase out inefficient incandescent globes and replace them with energy efficient alternatives, such as compact fluorescent lamps, is being promoted by SEDO with thousands of CFLs to be given away free to visitors stopping at the SEDO Expo display.

Information on the Top Ten Energy Smart tips and the House Energy Rating System (HERS) software packages that identify simple, economical ways to make your home more comfortable and reduce energy consumption are available. The minimum standard for new homes is 5 stars, with the maximum house energy efficiency equating to 10 stars.

Accredited HERS assessors will be available at the SEDO display to provide advice on how to increase the thermal energy efficiency, HERS star rating and comfort of your home.  – bring your house plans along for a free consultation.

The Expo is the perfect location to learn about renewable energy and practical and inspiring energy efficient initiatives that you can adopt to counter the rising cost of electricity.  There are many Energy Smart dollar saving ideas you can apply in your home such as using effective natural lighting and ventilation and give you the added satisfaction of knowing you have reduced your impact on greenhouse gas emissions.