Power NI, a member of the Energia Group, has secured a new partnership with Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful to sponsor the Green Flag Award Programme. This collaboration highlights a joint commitment to enhancing environmental standards and supporting local communities throughout Northern Ireland.

The Green Flag Award serves as an international benchmark for the excellence of parks and public spaces. To achieve and retain this status, sites must undergo a rigorous annual assessment focusing on safety, sustainability, and community involvement. There are currently 118 accredited sites across Northern Ireland, ranging from traditional parks and heritage locations to green spaces managed by local volunteers. Power NI's involvement is specifically designed to bolster the growth of the initiative, with a primary goal of increasing the number of community-led Green Flag sites. These open spaces are considered essential for public health, supporting both mental and physical wellbeing while fostering a sense of local pride.

William Steele, Director of Customer Solutions at Power NI, said: "We are proud to sponsor the Green Flag Award Programme in Northern Ireland and to partner with Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful on a programme that delivers tangible benefits for local communities. High-quality green spaces are vital to health, wellbeing and social connection, and this partnership supports the people and organisations working to maintain them."

He added: "Our sponsorship will help grow the network of Green Flag community sites, encouraging local groups and residents to take an active role in caring for their environment and creating spaces that can be enjoyed by people of all ages."

Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful, which has operated since 2000, is one of four charities benefiting from the Energia Group Greener Possibilities Fund. This fund, administered by Community Foundation Ireland, aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals for Climate Action and Sustainable Communities.