The Integrated Habitats Design Competition (IHDC) is now launched and accepting registrations online at http://ihdc.org.uk. The IHDC puts nature at the heart of our living environment for the benefit of all. Bio-diversity is the basis of all life but our ecosystems are currently in severe decline. The top prize for the best design is £2000 and there will be a prestigious awards ceremony in London in October 2011.

Entrants are asked to refer to their local, regional and national Biodiversity Action Plans and to prioritise specific habitats and biodiversity in their development designs. The design submissions should also dem-onstrate exemplar practice in water and energy management and use, health and amenity. Registration is now open online at http://ihdc.org.uk and entries can be submitted from 1 May.