The awards were instigated 16 years ago by the Green Organisation to recognise, reward and promote environmental best practice globally. Most of these annual awards go to local authorities and private companies involved in initiatives such as water conservation, reduction in unnecessary lighting or improving the natural environment.

At the awards ceremony at the Tower of London last week, the organisers recognised the equal contribution of a campaign encouraging the public to reuse and repair items that have already been in circulation for hundreds of years.