Individuals, businesses, industries, schools and community groups who have adopted sustainable business practices are encouraged to nominate for the Premier’s Sustainability Awards as positive role models for all Queenslanders.
Premier Campbell Newman said the awards celebrate those who are working to reduce our impact on the planet, strengthen our economy, and maintain our enviable Queensland lifestyle.
“When we came to office, we promised to grow a four pillar economy and the Premier’s Sustainability Awards showcase how that can be achieved in concert with our commitment to protecting the environment,” Mr Newman said.
“There are people in our local communities tackling the challenge of securing our sustainable future head on, and now is the time for them to nominate for the 2014 awards and share their achievements.
“There was an overwhelming response to the 2013 awards with more than 140 nominations, and I look forward to a similar response in 2014 to acknowledge those who are harnessing our resources to find new solutions to old challenges.”
Minister for Environment and Heritage Protection Andrew Powell said each category award winner would receive $2,500 to support ongoing or future sustainability projects.
“The Premier’s Sustainability Awards recognise better waste management and recycling practices, efficient use of water, reduction of energy, the enhancement of the environment and effective, practical community action,” Mr Powell said.
“The 2014 award 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.
“The Sustainable Heritage Award recognises and rewards innovative sustainable management practices that conserve Queensland’s heritage.
“In addition to the nine award categories, 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.
“Sustainable practices and new and innovative technologies have an important role to play in helping to support sustainable development and protect the environment in Queensland.
“The awards recognise new ideas by Queenslanders and encourage further ingenuity and innovation.”
The awards are proudly supported by Bendigo Bank, CANEGROWERS, Carlton & United Breweries, Department of Tourism, Major Events, Small Business and the Commonwealth Games (DTESB), Glencore, QUT, Santos and Thiess.
Nominations for the 2014 Premier’s Sustainability Awards close on 14 March 2014 and the awards presentation will take place on Friday 30 May 2014 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
