Environmental awards for Queensland business

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is on the lookout for businesses that are environmentally innovative and sustainability smart.

Environment Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr has called for entries in the Queensland government's EPA Sustainable Industries Awards which will be held in May 2007.

"These awards will put the spotlight on eco-efficient, sustainable practices adopted by industry and businesses throughout Queensland," Nelson-Carr said.

"By showcasing the state's "˜champions of sustainability', the awards will demonstrate the benefits of sustainable business practice "“ to the environment and to the bottom line.

"Increasingly, Queenslanders are trying to live more sustainably, reducing their environmental impact by using less water and recycling, so it makes good sense for businesses to consider the benefits too.

"We should recognise, congratulate and support those companies that are thinking ahead."

The EPA is hosting the awards which will be presented in these categories:

• Minister's Award for ClimateSmart Leadership;
• Industrial Eco-efficiency;
• Corporate Sustainability;
• Innovation in Sustainable Technologies;
• Sustainability in Public Sector or Community Initiatives;
• Sustainability in Urban Development or the Built Environment; and
• Rural Sustainability.

Nelson-Carr said the awards aimed to increase awareness of the advantages of sustainable practices for business and boost industry's adoption of these practices. Entries should relate to projects or initiatives that are Queensland based and have the potential to be adapted or adopted by other organisations.

Entries close 23 February 2007.

For more information, visit www.epa.qld.gov.au.