John Paul College are the new Bay of Plenty Enviro Challenge champions for 2015, after narrowly edging out a brilliant effort from Papamoa College and Aquinas College.

The Enviro Challenge was hosted by 2014 champions Katikati College on Wednesday.

John Paul College won the Enviro Challenge in Tauranga this week.

Whakatane High School, John Paul College, Aquinas College, Katikati College, Otumoetai College, Papamoa College and Mount College travelled to Tauranga to compete in the challenge.

The Enviro Challenge is run across various regions of NZ by the Enviro Challenge NZ trust. The competition tests high schools' environmental performance, carbon management, and innovation in addressing environmental issues.

The event format sees schools competing in environmental presentations, a carbon footprint race, an environmental debate, an environmental quiz and an in-depth environmental review and action plan for their school.

The event is a chance for schools to share information with other schools and show-case their innovative solutions and initiatives.

The Bay event is supported by Western Bay of Plenty District Council, Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Sustainability Options, Bay Fair Shopping centre, Catalyst NZ, Eunomia Consulting, Envirostate and consultant Christine McKinlay

Western Bay of Plenty District Council's Glenn Ayo presented the trophies and commented on the challenges and benefits of addressing environmental issues such as waste minimisation, recycling, water purity, water conservation and energy efficiency.

John Paul College in winning the trophy produced a very good presentation, along with impressive environmental data supporting historic environmental initiatives and well considered future environmental actions.

The team of four: Jessie Colbert, Theresa McLean, Danielle Cooper, Andrew Fairweather and Teacher Matt Satherley were very pleased with the win.