The Crystal Compass awards ceremony took place on May 25 in Krasnodar. The winners were selected in ten categories, including Best Social and Information Project for the Protection of the Environment and Natural Heritage, Best Environmental Project by an Industrial Company, For Scientific Achievement, For Awareness, Best Media Coverage, Best Publication, Best Photo Project, Best Public Stance, Best Regional Project and Best Public Recognition.

Over the course of four months, the award received 150 nominated entries. The expert council shortlisted 31 projects for the final selection. The award organisers awarded winning titles to all the finalists. Their representatives received diplomas. The winner of the Golden Compass was a book on snow leopards: “Snow Leopard: Following the tracks of a mysterious animal.” The book was published in support of the Russian Geographical Society’s snow leopard conservation project.

The Crystal Compass national award was established in 2012 by the Krasnodar regional office of the Russian Geographical Society. The award aims to support people working to preserve the natural wealth of their country and to promote respect and care for national assets.