2014 UNAA World Environment Day Awards announced

The annual United Nations Association of Australia (UNAA) World Environment Day Awards winners were announced on 13 June at the Crystal Ballroom Luna Park, Sydney. The awards acknowledged innovative programs to preserve the natural habitat, limit food waste, encourage young individuals to take charge of their surroundings and more.

The Swinburne University of Technology Excellence in Sustainable Product Design Award, now in its second year, was presented to Seeley International’s Braemar ‘Super-Six’ Ducted Gas Heater. As the world’s first 6-star ducted gas heating range, the product is claimed to use 30% less energy than a 3-star ducted gas heater.

The Individual Award went to Daniel Brindley, who has given time, money and knowledge to help the Australian bush and its wildlife by reshaping parts of the Mornington Peninsula and other areas in Victoria. He set up the Habitat Restoration Fund and works with people from difficult backgrounds.  

The Media Award for Environmental Reporting was presented to SBS World News correspondent Stefan Armbruster, who reached remote parts of the Solomon Islands to reveal how rising sea levels are forcing people off their land.

Other winners include:

• Hanson’s Green Building Award
  Charter Hall and Cbus Property, 171 Collins St, Melbourne (Vic)
• NSW Office of Environment and Heritage Sustainability Leadership Awards
  Small and Medium Organisations - Daintree Discovery Centre (Qld)
  Large Organisations - Teachers Mutual Bank (NSW)
• Virgin Australia Community Award
  Kangaroo Island Dolphin Watch, Little Island, Big Ocean (SA)
• Business Awards
  Best Specific Environmental Initiative - Hydro Tasmania, King Island Renewable Energy Integration Project (Tas)
  Excellence in Overall Environmental Management - Republica Coffee (NSW)
• Biodiversity Award
  Goolwa to Wellington Local Action Planning Association (SA)
• Environmental School Award
  Bentleigh Secondary College, A Very Sustainable School (Vic)
• Excellence in Sustainable Water Management Award
  Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Schools Water Efficiency Program (Vic)
• Local Government Awards
  Best Specific Environmental Initiative - City of Boroondara, Integrating and celebrating wildlife within Boroondara (Vic)
  Excellence in Overall Environmental Management - Shoalhaven City Council, Commitment to Environmental Management and Programs (NSW)
• Sustainability Education Award
  Cultivating Community, Food Know How Program (Vic)