Entries open for Victorian Premier’s Sustainability Awards

Victorian Minister for Environment and Climate Change Ryan Smith has called for entries to the Premier’s Sustainability Awards 2013.

Smith encouraged all Victorians who have demonstrated environmental leadership to nominate for the prestigious awards.

“Now in their 11th year, the Premier’s Sustainability Awards are just one way the Victorian Government celebrates the contribution businesses, institutions, communities and individuals make to achieving an even more liveable and sustainable Victoria,” Smith said.

“The awards celebrate the efficient use of water, resources and energy, better waste management and recycling practices, the enhancement of the environment and effective, practical community action.”

The CEO of Sustainability Victoria, Stan Krpan, added his support for the awards, noting that entering the competition gives organisations the chance to review their sustainability practices.

“Finalists and winners receive valuable recognition from the Victorian Government, their communities and customers. They will be able to use their involvement in the program to demonstrate a genuine and practical commitment to sustainability,” Krpan said.

This year the awards provide even more opportunities for recognition. Entries are open in eight categories, including three completely new categories:

• Infrastructure and Buildings
• Tourism
• Education
• Environmental Protection
• Innovative Product and Services
• Small and Medium Enterprises (SME)
• Large Business
• Community

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

The Premier’s Regional Recognition Award will focus on a regional finalist who has demonstrated significant benefit to regional Victoria.

The overall winner will receive the Premier’s Recognition Award, which focuses on exemplary leadership and innovation in sustainability. All award winners will be eligible.

“I would encourage any business, institution, organisation, government or individual with a commitment to sustainability to enter the Premier’s Sustainability Awards 2013,” said Krpan.

The awards are managed by Sustainability Victoria on behalf of the Victorian Government and the Premier of Victoria.

For more information and to enter, visit www.sustainabilityawads.vic.gov.au. Entries close 15 July at 2 pm.