Trailblazers recognised at the 2024 Sustainable Business Awards

Pictured above: Rachel Brown (left), Mike Casey and Oliver Jepson, National Motor Manager at NZI.

A new generation of Kiwi innovators has been unveiled at Sustainable Business Awards 2024.

Last night, the Sustainable Business Network (SBN) hosted a pared back Sustainable Business Awards at Brad’s Warehouse in Auckland’s CBD. Like so many businesses, tough economic times have hit the SBN meaning the normal 10-category awards programme was reduced to just two: Disruptive Innovation and Transformational Leadership, highlighting excellence in driving impactful, large-scale change.

The night was also an opportunity to celebrate The Next 95, a new feature of the awards, recognising 95 Kiwi innovators (and awards finalists) working across industries to build a sustainable future. Their work was showcased in an exhibition, offering attendees a firsthand look at the solutions shaping tomorrow​.

Auckland-based Lodestone Energy emerged as the winner of the Disruptive Innovation Award for their revolutionary approach to renewable energy.

By constructing five large-scale solar farms capable of powering 50,000 homes, Lodestone is redefining the country’s energy landscape. Their dual land-use model, which allows sheep grazing beneath elevated solar panels, was lauded by Barry Coates, Founder of Mindful Money, for its forward-thinking combination of agricultural sustainability and clean energy production.

“Lodestone is a testament to how clean energy can be both innovative and financially viable, contributing significantly to New Zealand’s zero-carbon goals,” Coates said.

Mike Casey, CEO of Rewiring Aotearoa, received the Transformational Leadership Award for his tireless advocacy of electrification in New Zealand. His all-electric cherry orchard in Central Otago serves as a compelling demonstration of the economic and environmental benefits of transitioning from fossil fuels. The orchard not only saves $50,000 in annual energy costs but also reduces carbon emissions by approximately 50 tonnes annually.

Coates praised Casey’s work, noting, “His efforts have catalysed meaningful change in the energy sector, demonstrating the viability of electrification at scale”.

Several organisations and individuals received commendations for their contributions. These included Spout Milk, whose reusable milk kegs have eliminated over 100,000 plastic bottles, and Lanaco, whose wool-based air filters are even used by NASA.

Rachel Brown, Founder of the SBN, emphasised the urgency of these innovations amid escalating climate challenges. “This year has brought extreme fires, droughts, and warming oceans, underscoring the need for transformative solutions. These trailblazers are not just innovating – they’re providing the blueprint for a regenerative, circular economy.”

This year’s awards highlighted that New Zealand’s sustainable future is not just a vision but a tangible, growing movement powered by extraordinary talent and commitment.