A SEARCH has been launched to find Lancashire's greenest groups and individuals.

The Lancashire Community Recycling Network (CRN) has launched their annual Red Rose Recycling Awards competition to find the county's best teams of recyclers.

Nominations are also sought for the title of Lancashire's Recycling Champion 2006, which will be awarded for an outstanding contribution made by an individual to community recycling.

All not-for-profit organisations who run large or small waste minimisation campaigns, community re-use projects, recycling or compost schemes, are eligible to enter.

The awards are in three categories: best voluntary project, best community enterprise and best new project.

Andrew Swarbrick, Chair of Lancashire CRN, said: "Last year the awards showcased some excellent sustainable waste management practices.

"Last year's winners were just a snapshot of the wonderful array of community and voluntary sector projects running in Lancashire.

"The judges chose an innovative schools education programme, an outstanding local recycling scheme and a rapidly expanding furniture re-use project to receive last years' awards.

"As well as rewarding organisations, we are also looking to award an outstanding volunteer or colleague as the Red Rose Recycling Champion 2006."

A total of £3,000 is up for grabs in the 2006 Red Rose Recycling Awards organised by the Lancashire CRN.

The three winning groups will each receive £1,000.

Waste management and recycling companies SITA, Global Renewables and TEG Environmental have each pledged £1,000 sponsorship for winning organisations.

The Recycling Champion will receive some recycled goodies and £250 for a community waste organisation of their choice, thanks to sponsor Lancashire County Developments Ltd.

To nominate yourself, your organisation, or someone else, as a top recycler call 01772 532 892 or apply online at www.lancashirecrn.org.

Entries must be received no later than Thursday 31 August.