Nominations open for 2014 Queensland Premier's Sustainability Awards

The Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (EHP) is calling on Queensland businesses to nominate for the 2014 Premier’s Sustainability Awards and be part of an event showcasing the state’s high achievers in sustainable business practices.

“There was an overwhelming response to the 2013 awards, with more than 140 nominations,” said Premier Campbell Newman. “I look forward to a similar response in 2014 to acknowledge those who are harnessing our resources to find new solutions to old challenges.”

Entering the awards provides the opportunity to:

• highlight your organisation’s commitment to sustainable practices such as saving energy and water;
• gain recognition for your organisation’s achievements;
• showcase a sustainable business practice that demonstrates leadership and innovation in your industry;
• increase awareness of your project or activity in the community or to potential customers or business partners;
• network with other key groups in your industry; and
• recognise the work of staff in your organisation.

Entry is open to Queensland-based businesses, schools, councils, individuals, community, not-for-profit organisations and local governments who consider themselves leaders in sustainable business practices. Minister for Environment and Heritage Protection Andrew Powell said nominees will be entered into various categories, with the winner of each category receiving $2500 to support ongoing or future sustainability projects.

The categories are Built Environment, Business Eco-efficiency, Community, Innovation in Sustainable Technologies, Rural, Small Business, the Minister’s Award for Leadership in Sustainability, Sustainability in Education and, for the first time, Sustainable Heritage which “recognises and rewards innovative sustainable management practices that conserve Queensland’s heritage”, Powell said.

“In addition to the nine award categories,” Powell continued, “the pinnacle award, the Premier’s Award, will be presented to an individual or group who have made an outstanding contribution to promoting and advancing sustainability in Queensland.”

Entries close at 5 pm on 14 March and the awards presentation will take place on 30 May at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. More information about the awards, and an online application form, can be found at www.ehp.qld.gov.au/premiersawards.