Electronics giant Philips has launched a new €125,000 worldwide search for projects that will improve health, quality of life and sustainability in cities.

Their Livable Cities Award aims to encourage ideas that will make cities a better place to live by tackling some of society’s biggest problems, such as an ever-increasing and ever-aging population.

The competition is open to entries from businesses, community groups, NGOs and individuals – projects should fall under one of the following categories:

• Wellbeing Outdoors - initiatives to help citizens fell safe and secure in public spaces, or help create identify and sense of belonging.
• Independent Living - initiatives to help the growing number of elderly people living alone to feel secure and comfortable living in a city, or to enable them to live longer at home while receiving appropriate access to healthcare.
• Healthy Lifestyle at Work and Home - initiatives to support a healthy body and mind, through surroundings or other essentials such as exercise, diet and sleep.

The overall champion will scoop a €75,000 grant, with the two other category winners will each net €25,000.

Gottfried Dutine, chief innovation and markets officer for Philips, said:

“Philips understands challenges that cities are facing today, such as caring for an aging population, the need for security and managing health in an urban environment.

“We hope that the Philips Livable Cities Award will inspire simple, achievable ideas from all communities, to improve the health and wellbeing of people living in cities.”

Initial entries must be made by 28 October – a number of shortlisted ideas will be put to a public vote early in 2011, with the winners set to be revealed at an awards ceremony to be held in April.

For further information about the Livable Cities Awards, visit the Philips website (opens a new window)

Source: Philips, 07/06/2010