Pupils will be rewarded for their environmental initiatives

A new competition will reward projects that raise awareness of the environment and show pupils how they affect the world around them.

Entries have been invited from projects ranging from energy saving campaigns to local wildlife conservation.

The contest is run by the Scottish Executive with Scottish Power.

Environment Minister Ross Finnie said: "Everyone can take steps to reduce their use of natural resources and their impact on the planet.

This competition will reward the best projects which involve children and really make them think about the world Environment Minister Ross Finnie

"Schools across Dumfries and Galloway are already teaching pupils how that can be done through innovative projects up and down Scotland.

"This competition will reward the best projects which involve children and really make them think about the world around them.

"The competition says to primary pupils, their parents and teachers - it's our future - and I'd encourage as many schools as possible to enter."

Alison McKean, head of environment at Scottish Power, said it would be refreshing to see the talent and environmental awareness in schools.