But residents have been encouraged to dob in a neighbour for the Monash World Environment Day Awards.

The yearly awards recognise households, schools and businesses who do their bit for the environment.

Monash Council waste and environmental services co-ordinator Anna Mezzetti encouraged residents to nominate their neighbours because often people were less likely to do it themselves.

"We all know someone in the neighbourhood who is leading the way in adopting sustainable living practices, such as installing a solar hot water system, growing their own vegetables, sharing the eggs from their chickens, collecting their rainwater and using grey water in their gardens or toilets."

Ms Mezzetti said these people played an important role in inspiring others but often did not consider they were doing anything special. "These people are so busy going about the everyday practice of living sustainably they wouldn't think of nominating themselves for the awards. We need you to encourage your neighbour or friend to nominate so that we can all learn."

Ms Mezzetti said there were many ways to be green around the home and some required only small changes to the way people lived, such as walking children to school instead of driving and turning the thermostat down by a few degrees in winter and up a few degrees in summer.

People who work or live in Monash have until March 31 to nominate themselves or other residents for the awards.

The awards, for community leadership, sustainable business, greenest household and sustainable renovation or new building, have cash prizes of up to $3000 each.

If you have a green neighbour, you can also tell us at journal@fairfaxmedia.com.au or click on our news tip tab on our website.

Awards details: www.monash

.vic.gov.au/environm ent /awards.htm

TOP TIPSTOP TIPS

■Walk to the shops instead of driving.

■Get rid of the extra fridge, freezer or car.

■Weather-proof your home.

■Increase insulation in the ceilings or walls.

■Install a solar hot water heater.