Entries open for 2014 Victorian Premier's Sustainability Awards

Victorians who have demonstrated leadership in sustainability are invited to enter the Premier’s Sustainability Awards 2014. The awards are managed by Sustainability Victoria on behalf of the Victorian Government and the Premier of Victoria, Dr Denis Napthine MP.

Now in their 12th year, the awards celebrate efficient use of water, resources and energy; better waste management and recycling practices; the enhancement of the environment, and effective, practical community action. They are open to government agencies, institutions, businesses, community groups and individuals.

The nine categories in this year’s awards program are:

• Cleaner Yarra and Bay: Leadership, commitment and excellence to protect and/or enhance the health of the Yarra River, Port Phillip Bay and/or its waterways.
• Community: Leadership, commitment and excellence in delivery of sustainable projects or programs which have demonstrated widespread benefits for Victorian communities.
• Education: Development and delivery of educational programs and institutional practices that address and contribute to a more sustainable Victoria for current and future generations.
• Environmental Protection: Leadership, commitment and excellence by a business in the protection of the environment.
• Infrastructure and Buildings: Excellence in contribution to innovative design, construction/delivery and/or operation of sustainable infrastructure and buildings.
• Innovative Products or Services: Outstanding innovation in products and/or services that reduce environmental impact from a life cycle perspective.
• Large Business: Outstanding achievements by a large business in adopting and implementing sustainability principles.
• Small and Medium Enterprises (SME): Outstanding achievements in small-medium business for the adoption of sustainable measures and minimising environmental footprint.
• Tourism: Excellence in sustainable tourism which contributes to the understanding, appreciation and conservation of Victoria’s natural landscapes, ecology and local cultural heritage and/or provides tourism services through sustainable and efficient practices.

In addition, the Premier will personally select two overall winners: the Premier’s Regional Recognition Award and the Premier’s Recognition Award.

Entries close on 2 June and the awards dinner will be held on 2 October. Entrant information sessions will be held on 21 March and 9 April.

To book a place at the information sessions, email clare.vella@sustainability.vic.gov.au. To enter the awards, download an entry kit. For more information, email enquirePSA2014@arup.com.