The 23rd annual Cornwall Sustainability Awards (CSAs), held on Friday 5th December, celebrated the region’s most sustainable organisations at the National Maritime Museum in Falmouth. Hosted by Justin Olosunde of the Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Climate Commission, the evening featured speeches from Mrs Jane Hartley, Deputy Lieutenant of Cornwall, Cllr Rob Nolan, Chairperson of Cornwall Council, and Paloma Hermoso of Ward Williams. Conservationist Sacha Dench, known as the “The Human Swan”, delivered the keynote address, inspiring guests with her call to action on biodiversity and climate.
In the Nature Recovery category, RAF St Mawgan proudly secured the runner‑up position, with Our Only World named the winner. A small contingent of RAF St Mawgan personnel accepted the award alongside Wing Commander Helen Simpson, Station Commander of RAF St Mawgan and Sarah Kretowicz, Station Health, Safety and Environmental Protection Adviser and author of the submission.
Since 2021, RAF St Mawgan has led biodiversity initiatives across the MOD Estate in the Southwest. Partnering with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, Buglife, and the National Wildflower Centre, the station became the first military site in the region to implement No Mow May on an industrial scale. Their efforts have reduced herbicide use, saved fuel, and created thriving habitats for bees, butterflies, wildflowers and hedgehogs.
Wing Commander Helen Simpson said, “This award recognises the collective commitment of our personnel, partners and community. Together, we’ve shown that military sites can be places where nature flourishes and future generations enjoy a richer, more sustainable environment”.
The Cornwall Sustainability Awards 2025 once again highlighted Cornwall’s leadership in building a greener, more resilient future.
