Central/ Southern Sustainable Business Network Awards Honour the Region's Best
The Central and Southern regions’ Sustainable Business Network Awards highlighted some of the region’s top sustainable businesses in Wellington on 29 September 2011.
From universities to daycare, the winners demonstrated that sustainability can be incorporated into any business, in any industry.
SBN Central Regional Manager, Gretchen Bunny, said the winners and commendations demonstrate these companies’ commitment to sustainability by setting, and transparently working towards, significant sustainable objectives, and by acting as role models for others in the region.
“The calibre of entrants was extremely high and the judging panel certainly had their work cut out for them. I’m very impressed with the great initiatives these organisations have in place – they’ve once again reinforced the business case for sustainability,” said Ms Bunny.
Booker~Spalding Limited took out the Trailblazer Large and Corporate Business Award and the overall title of Sustainable Business of the Year. The judges were impressed with Booker~Spalding’s excellent all round and comprehensive application of sustainable practices throughout their business. The judges were particularly impressed with their strong monitoring systems which allowed for continual control and change.
The Emerging Small and Medium Business award was given to Daisies Early Education and Care Centre, in Johnsonville, Wellington. The judges were impressed with Daisies’ strong philosophy and clear vision. They provide reusable nappies for their clients and the judges loved how they advocate for recycling with the Wellington City Council.
Ground Effect received the Trailblazer Small and Medium Business Award. The judges were impressed with their excellent business model involving no middle-men. The judges also commented on their investments in energy reduction, product durability and the staff culture that has been created.
The Not for Profit award category was given to Wellington’s University, Victoria. Victoria University impressed the judges through their comprehensive programme for energy, gas, and water use reduction. The judges were also impressed by the Universities initiatives such as free buses and rainwater used for toilets.
Commendations were awarded to Nelson Environment Centre; NELMAC Whakatu Nursery; and CentrePort Ltd. All of these businesses impressed the judges for their clear commitment to sustainable business practices.
Central/Southern Region Winners and Commendations:
• Sustainable Business of the Year: Booker Spalding Limited
• Large and Corporate Business Trailblazer
o Winner: Booker Spalding Limited
o Highly Commended: CentrePort Limited
• Small Business Trailblazer
o Winner: Ground Effect
o Highly Commended: NELMAC Whakatu Nursery
• Small Business Emerging: Daisies Daycare Limited
• Not for Profit
o Winner: Victoria University of Wellington
o Highly Commended: Nelson Environment Centre
