Climate change crusaders come from all backgrounds.

These heroes of the environment might be teachers who explain to their students the different causes of climate change and what they can do to reduce their carbon footprint, or architects who design high efficiency buildings, or builders who recycle materials from demolition sites instead of putting the garbage into a landfill.

Now there is a way to recognize their efforts with the inaugural Maple Ridge Climate Hub Climate Champion awards.

“We want to recognize individuals, organizations and businesses in Maple Ridge that are leading the way in the fight against climate change,” said Kirk Grayson, a founding member of the Climate Hub.

“Perhaps it’s someone who advocates for active transportation, from safe cycling and walking routes to more extensive and frequent buses and trains. Or a person who cycles everywhere by choice,” Grayson noted. “We all know someone who’s ahead of the curve when it comes to curbing climate pollution.”

Nominations are currently open for the awards. Categories include: buildings; transportation; education; advocacy; business; home ownership; agriculture; innovator; senior; and youth.

The non-profit Maple Ridge Climate Hub was started by Grayson and a group of local citizens two years ago, with the goal of helping Maple Ridge move quickly to address climate change. One of their main objectives is to raise awareness about the causes of global warming, and what individuals can do to address its dangerous effects.

Grayson believes the awards could be a major step in building community understanding of how to bring about positive change.

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“We hope that by showing it’s possible to do things right now to combat climate change, it will inspire even more people to take action sooner rather than later,” she said, adding that it will be inspiring to see how much is already being done in Maple Ridge.

Nominations for the awards are open until March 18.

Awards will be handed out at the annual Earth Day celebrations that will be taking place in Memorial Peace Park, downtown Maple Ridge, from 10-2 p.m. on April 23.

Forms can be submitted through the Climate Hub’s website, at mapleridgeclimatehub.ca/workshops-events/climate-champion-awards.