30 May 2011: This year’s environment media award from the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) is focused on the Pacific Year of the Dugong, SPREP has announced, to encourage media workers in SPREP countries to raise awareness on dugongs, sea grasses and marine life in general.

The Vision Pasifika Media Award is a partnership between SPREP and the African, Caribbean and Pacific countries Multilateral Environment Agreements (ACP MEAs) Project, which is funded by the European Union and implemented by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).

Stories submitted for this year’s award – under the theme, “Dugongs and Sea grasses: Respect and Protect” – could showcase community projects, highlight how people conserve Pacific marine life, or promote good environment practices towards the region’s marine life.

According to the award conditions, entries must have been featured either online, on radio, television or in print, during 2011. The entries will be judged by a panel consisting of a SPREP member, a regional media representative and an environmental NGO. [SPREP News] [Flier for 2011 Award]