Sustainable companies of the year announced

Corporate Express Australia, an office supply and services company, has been awarded this year's Sustainable Company of the Year Award.

The Australian Sustainability Awards, now in their eighth year, recognise best practice in corporate sustainability across Australian Stock Exchange listed companies.

Corporate Express was nominated for its exemplary supply chain program, which the company has now implemented throughout its top 100 suppliers and for its 400-plus green products line.

In announcing the award, John Newton, group environment and sustainability manager, Amcor, said: "Sustainability is a journey and for some companies it is more complex and riddled with detail than others.

"This company sells a vast array of products, many of which are manufactured overseas, particularly in Asia. And with that, it has become a leader in establishing a meaningful level of sustainability commitments from its suppliers."

Blackmores received the Sustainable Small Company of the Year Award. The health and food supplements company is an example of a company where the welfare and development of staff are at the fore of business. The company has also taken significant steps to reduce its impact on the environment.

"This small company is an established, profitable, dividend-paying leader in its industry," said Professor Steve Keen, keynote speaker and Associate Professor of the University of Western Sydney.

"With only 300 employees, the company itself demonstrates an impressive alignment with its products.

"It recognises that in order for those products to be accepted, the company that stands behind them should mirror their message — in this case, natural health."