Actsmart awards for top local businesses

Businesses across the Canberra region were recognised for their commitment to saving energy, water and the environment at the sixth annual Actsmart Business Sustainability Awards today.

Minister for Environment Simon Corbell presented 11 awards in categories ranging from Waste Minimisation to Innovation and Leadership at the annual event.

“The positive contribution of local business is crucial in making Canberra and the region more sustainable and it’s really encouraging to see the number of businesses involved in Actsmart programs growing each year,” Mr Corbell said.

The Cheeky Chicken Early Learning Centre in Hughes took out both the energy and water awards.

To reduce energy use in an old 1970s building, the centre insulated the roof, replaced old windows, upgraded to LED lights, and in a clever and cost effective move adjusted orientation to maximise natural light, resulting in 75% of the building not requiring artificial light for most of the year.

To reduce water bills the centre installed a 6-star energy rated plywood floor that can be dry-mopped, reducing water consumption, and upgraded taps and toilets to energy efficient models.

“Actsmart programs will continue to support local businesses to find new ways to reduce their waste, energy and water usage and I am confident innovative companies like the Cheeky Chicken Early Learning Centre will inspire more businesses to join the program.” Mr Corbell said.

“The Actsmart Business Recycling program is now being implemented at more than 750 sites throughout the ACT and Queanbeyan, allowing more than 40,000 staff to recycle in their workplace”.

”The Actsmart Business Energy and Water program has helped more than 330 small businesses reduce energy and water consumption, with businesses saving on average $2,500 each year off energy bills.

“Today’s awards tell the stories behind the inspiring initiatives of our local business community who are making Canberra more sustainable while cutting business costs at the same time.”

For more information on how to make your home, school or business more sustainable visit www.actsmart.act.gov.au

The Actsmart Business Sustainability Award winners are:

Waste Minimisation: Brema Group & Elections ACT

Biggest Recycler – Small event: 4th July Celebrations
Highly Commended: Wanniassa Hills Primary School

Biggest Recycler – Large event: National Folk Festival

Biggest Recycler – Business: National Library of Australia

Motivation Excellence: Belconnen Early Childhood Centre
Highly Commended: TEDx Canberra

Small Business Award: Bond Hair Religion

Ministers Award for Leadership: Jancye Winter

Energy Star: Cheeky Chicken Early Learning Centre
Highly Commended: CLASS Locksmiths & St Stephen Anglican Church Kambah

Corporate Award: Turner and Townsend

Water Star: Cheeky Chicken Early Learning Centre

Innovation Excellence: Allbids.com.au
Highly Commended: Australian Sports Commission