Entries open for sustainability awards

Entries are now open for New Zealand’s longest-running and pre-eminent sustainability awards.

The NZI Sustainable Business Network Awards, which are now in their 14th year, celebrate the contribution organisations and individuals are making to transforming New Zealand to a more sustainable nation. Entry to the awards is free and open to all organisations and individuals in New Zealand.

CEO of the SBN Rachel Brown says, “There’s been a tremendous amount of action in sustainability over the past year and the need to be recognised in this space is greater than ever. The sustainable business landscape has shifted with events such as the Paris Agreement on climate change putting sustainability firmly on the agenda.

“Now’s the time to be recognised for your sustainability innovations or impacts. Entering these Awards is a quick and easy way to celebrate your achievements.” 

The NZI Sustainable Business Network Awards focus on four transformation areas that are key to the future direction of sustainability in New Zealand: Renewables, Community, Mega efficiency and Restorative.

Within each of these four categories there are separate awards for Impact and Innovation. There are also awards for an individual Sustainability Champion, Communicating Sustainability and Energy Management.

The supreme award, NZI Greatest Contribution to a Sustainable New Zealand, will be awarded to a business that has performed outstandingly well in all aspects of sustainability.

Last year’s winners ranged from small businesses like Wishbone Design Studio and social enterprises such as Ākina Foundation to corporates like Gull and DB Breweries. The 2015 supreme award was presented to Taupō Beef.

Travis Atkinson, Executive General Manager of NZI, the Principal Sponsor of the Awards says, “We’ve been proud supporters of the Sustainable Business Network and national awards since 2007.

“NZI provides insurance for a growing New Zealand so being sustainable is really important to us – it’s become fundamental to the way we do business. We’re strong believers in the SBN’s mission to inspire change and we look forward to meeting the sustainability leaders of 2016.”