Large organisations leading the way for Banksia Awards

The Banksia Awards, the prestigious Australian environmental awards series, has announced a record number of finalists for its 2010 awards. The biggest growth in submissions occurs in the big business award category.

The 22-year-old awards recognise Australia’s leading environmental or sustainable initiatives across business, government and community organisations, and act as a barometer of change across the sustainability landscape.

Graz van Egmond, Executive Director of the Banksia Environmental Foundation, said, “I think the general public perception is that Australia has lost direction in tackling sustainability and environmental issues.

“After reviewing hundreds of award submissions this year we’re actually very upbeat about the progress being made, ranging from grassroots community activities right through to big business and government organisations.

“Large corporates and councils doubled their submissions this year; it’s clear significant resources are being dedicated to improving the way they operate and reducing their impact on precious resources and the environment.

“There are some fantastic case studies this year that demonstrate how smart sustainability practices can translate to smart business practice.”

There are 15 award categories in total, including Prime Minister’s Environmentalist of the Year, the Origin Gold Banksia Award celebrating the top entry across all categories, the Mercedes-Benz Australian Environmental Research Award, the Banksia Community Grant supported by GPT Group, and the Banksia Peoples Choice Award supported by Australia Post.

Voting is now open for the Peoples Choice Award through www.peopleschoice.com.au, where background information on finalists is available for review.

The Banksia Award winners will be announced at an awards ceremony to be held on 15 October at Sydney Town Hall.