CIWEM's Annual Dinner was a night for celebrating environmental solutions.

Lord Chris Smith, Chairman of the Environment Agency and Principal Guest Speaker, praised examples of successful international cooperation on the environment, such as reducing acid rain and protecting the ozone layer, to emphasise the need for securing a strong international agreement at the UN Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen. Referring to the Environment Agency's role on climate change, he pledged to work with organisations, communities and individuals, recognising communication and knowledge sharing are key to ensuring the EA are part of the solution and not part of the problem. 
 
Then CIWEM's award winners showed how innovation and commitment can have a profound difference to the environment. There to collect the CIWEM's World of Difference Award, sponsored by Black and Veatch, was Wim Verheugt, Regional Director Europe East for Mott MacDonald.  The award recognised work undertaken as part of the Lower Dnister River Basin Project.

Special commendation for the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust's project, Wetland Management for Sustainable Livelihoods in Nepal, was received by Seb Buckton.

CIWEM's Young Members' Award, sponsored by Jacobs, was collected by two winners, Elizabeth Guilford for her work in Banda Aceh and Rachelle Sullivan for her commitment to CIWEM through her role in the New Members' Group.
 
Amidst the 400 strong audience were politicians, senior environmentalists, environmental artists, consultants and contractors.
 
Nick Reeves, CIWEM's Executive Director, said after the event: 'It was a wonderful night for celebrating the positive outcomes of hard work in the environment, from international cooperation to practical projects working in the front line of climate change. Lord Smith's comments have strengthened CIWEM's resolve to take a holistic approach to environmental, social and cultural issues, working with governments, international organisations, NGOs, creative organisations and faith groups for a sustainable world.'
 
Many thanks are due to Grontmij and Mott MacDonald for sponsoring the event. The dinner helped to raise over £2,500 for the Stockholm Junior Water Prize. CIWEM is proud to be the UK organiser for this competition, which attracts thousands of participants in over 30 countries, bringing together the world's brightest young people to encourage their interest in water and the environment.