Earlier this month, Intact Insurance Channel Islands celebrated the outstanding achievements of Guernsey environmental champions at the 2026 Conservation Awards.
The awards recognise individuals, organisations, schools and community groups whose dedication is helping to protect and enhance the natural environment across the Bailiwick.
Now in their 36th year, the awards continue to honour innovation, commitment and community action in conservation.
This year’s top honour, the Best Conservation Project Award, was presented to Alderney Wildlife Trust for its Once and Future Woodland initiative. The project impressed judges with its ambitious vision to restore native woodland across Alderney through habitat restoration, native tree planting, education and community engagement, helping to create a more resilient and biodiverse landscape for future generations.
The Best Conservation Project Runner-Up Award was awarded to Guernsey Conservation Volunteers for its Keeping Bluebell Wood Blue project. Over the past five years, volunteers have worked tirelessly to remove invasive species from Bluebell Wood, supporting the recovery of native bluebells and preserving one of Guernsey’s most valued natural habitats.
Young people once again played a prominent role in the awards. St Martin’s Primary School received the Schools and Youth Groups Green Award in recognition of its wide-ranging conservation initiatives, including pollinator habitats, pond restoration and sustainability-focused outdoor learning. The school’s efforts also earned it the Peter Walpole People’s Choice Award, selected through public voting.
The Young Conservationists of the Year Award was presented to the 8th Guernsey Cubs (Scouts) for their enthusiasm and commitment to wildlife exploration, conservation activities and outdoor learning, helping to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.
A special highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the Judges’ Special Recognition Award to the GSPCA, acknowledging its longstanding contribution to wildlife conservation, animal welfare and community education across the Bailiwick. The award recognised generations of dedicated work rescuing, rehabilitating and protecting wildlife while raising awareness of conservation issues.
Judges also awarded Highly Commended recognition to:
- Guernsey Beach Cleaners, for their efforts to tackle marine pollution and protect the island’s coastline;
- Pollinator Project, for its community-led habitat restoration and biodiversity work; and
- Guernsey Nature Commission, for its innovative biodiversity monitoring initiative combining scientific research with citizen participation.
Speaking at the event, Sarah Beatty, Managing Director of Intact Insurance Channel Islands, said: “The Conservation Awards continue to showcase the remarkable work taking place across our islands to protect and enhance the natural environment. Every year we are inspired by the passion, dedication and innovation demonstrated by individuals and organisations of all sizes, and 2026 has been no exception. We congratulate all of this year’s winners, finalists and volunteers for the positive impact they are making for nature and future generations.”
