The Netherlands: Winning ideas to save the planet

The PICNIC Green Challenge ?08, the international creative competition of the Dutch Postcode Lottery and cross-media event PICNIC, kicked off on May 13th. The PICNIC Green Challenge urges people to send in creative and innovative ideas to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Like last year, the best idea will win ?500,000 to execute the winning plan. The prize money, provided by the Dutch Postcode Lottery, will be awarded at PICNIC ?08 in Amsterdam the 25th of September.

The PICNIC Green Challenge is aimed at creative, innovative people who can instigate change. The contest is looking for products and services that contribute to an eco-friendly lifestyle, directly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and scoring well on convenience, quality and design too.

The contest closes on the 31st of July 2008. From the various entries sent the preliminary jury will select three to five finalists. These nominees will present their ideas on September the 25th at PICNIC ?08. The best entrant wins ?500,000 to market the winning idea. The winner will be introduced to potential clients and business partners.

Last year the chairman of the jury, Sir Richard Branson, presented the ?500,000 to finalist Igor Kluin of Qurrent and his Qbox. The Qbox enables people to generate their own energy locally from renewable sources. Other finalists presented a solar lamp, carbon reduced goods transport, online green initiatives and climate friendly clubbing. The PICNIC Green Challenge ?07 received 439 green ideas.

More info
www.greenchallenge.info