Jonathon Porritt, outspoken supporter of renewable energy and sustainability, has been confirmed as keynote speaker for the Northwest Business Environment Awards, which Foundation is pleased to be supporting.

He will address up to 300 guests on the importance of environmental leadership for a sustainable future in the Northwest, at the annual awards ceremony on 19 October at The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester.

Jonathon co-founded the sustainable development charity, Forum for the Future, and is an eminent writer, broadcaster and commentator on sustainable development.

Now in their eighth successive year, the awards are the highest profile celebration of environmentally conscious businesses in the Northwest. They cover businesses of all sizes and sectors, across Cheshire, Cumbria, Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Merseyside.

The Awards are hosted for the first time this year by ENWORKS, the Northwest's award-winning environmental business support service. After attracting over 100 entries, shortlisting is now underway in six categories, covering environmental best practice, environmental innovation, the built environment, environmental leadership, media and communications and combating climate change.

Jonathon commented: “It's great to see so many businesses, large and small, vying for the chance to be recognised as one of the Northwest's Green Heroes, and speaking out about the steps they're taking towards a more sustainable future for us all."

Last year's event sold out well in advance and tickets are now on sale for the 2010 ceremony. The afternoon event takes place from 2.00pm until 6.00pm and tickets cost £32.00 per head. To find out more and to book a place, visit: www.greenheroawards.co.uk