National Park Protector Awards 2026 to Celebrate 15 Years of Environmental Stewardship

The National Park Protector Awards are back for 2026, and this year marks a special milestone as it is the 15th anniversary of the event. Organised by the Campaign for National Parks, this annual celebration aims to recognise and honour the incredible work done by individuals and grassroots groups dedicated to protecting and enhancing National Parks across England and Wales. The awards highlight the unsung heroes, volunteers, and project leaders who make significant contributions to these beautiful natural spaces.

Celebrating Achievements

The National Park Protector Awards shine a spotlight on those who often go unnoticed in their efforts to care for the environment. These awards celebrate a variety of categories that reflect the diverse contributions made by individuals and organisations. There are four awards up for grabs this year, each focusing on different aspects of environmental stewardship:

• Marsh National Park Nature Award: This award recognises a group, project, or campaign that has put nature at the heart of their work within National Parks.

• New Perspectives Award: This category celebrates people, projects, or initiatives that ensure everyone feels welcomed and represented in National Parks.

• Young Changemaker of the Year Award: This award commends volunteers, campaigners, and professionals under 35 who have shown exceptional commitment to National Parks.

• NEW Living Landscapes Award: This new category champions farmers and land managers whose efforts support the thriving landscapes and communities within National Parks.

These awards not only recognise the hard work of individuals but also inspire others to get involved and make a difference in their local areas.

How to Get Involved

Nominations for the National Park Protector Awards open on 15th June and will remain open until 12th July. This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone who knows of a person or project that deserves recognition for their contributions to National Parks. The nomination form will be available on the Campaign for National Parks website, where full details about the awards can also be found. Individuals who want to support these awards can help in two key ways:

1. Spread the Word: Sharing information about the awards with friends, family, and social networks can help raise awareness. The Campaign for National Parks has provided shareable social media assets and suggested copy to make this easier.

2. Make Nominations: If there are people or projects that stand out for their dedication to National Parks, nominations can be submitted directly through the designated form here: https://campaignfornationalparks.beaconforms.com/form/da906e8f

This is a chance to highlight the amazing work being done in the community. For more information, the nomination form and details about the awards can be accessed at the following link: National Park Protector Awards.

A Night to Remember

The winners of the National Park Protector Awards will be announced during a prestigious ceremony at the Houses of Parliament on 14th October. This event promises to be a memorable evening filled with stories of inspiration and dedication, celebrating those who work tirelessly to protect the natural beauty of the National Parks. These awards not only acknowledge individual and group efforts but also serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving natural environments for future generations. By recognising the hard work of these individuals, the Campaign for National Parks hopes to inspire others to contribute to the ongoing protection and enhancement of these treasured landscapes.

Get Ready for Nominations

As the nomination window approaches, potential nominees and supporters are encouraged to think about the people and projects that deserve recognition. Whether it’s a local volunteer group that has transformed an area of a National Park or a young person leading a conservation initiative, every nomination counts. The Campaign for National Parks is eager to see a diverse range of nominations that reflect the many ways people engage with and protect these vital spaces. This year’s awards are set to be the biggest celebration yet, showcasing the passion and commitment of those who work to ensure that National Parks remain vibrant and accessible for everyone. Anyone interested in getting involved or seeking more information can visit the Campaign for National Parks' social media pages or their website. Together, the community can help ensure that the stories of these heroes are heard and celebrated.