Zero Waste Scotland, sponsors of the Vision in Business for the Environment of Scotland (VIBES) Awards, is encouraging Scotland’s businesses to enter their green credentials for a chance to join the country’s list of sustainable champions before the application deadline.
All entries for this year’s VIBES Awards, which recognise and showcase businesses that are taking significant steps to reduce their impact on the environment, must be submitted by 5pm on Monday, July 13 2015.
Open to organisations of all sizes and sectors, the awards aim to encourage efficient use of resources, enhance business competitiveness, improve environmental performance and support wider sustainable development goals.
There are seven award categories open for entry this year with multiple entries accepted. Categories include: Management (Large and SME), Environmental Product or Service, Transport, Co-operation, Hydro-Nation and Circular Economy. In addition to this, the Micro Business Award will be presented to the best entry to any category from a company with less than 10 employees.
Previous winners have included Airdrie based Albert Bartlett & Sons Ltd, BAE Systems Naval Ships and GRAHAM Construction from Glasgow, Dundee based IRT Surveys Ltd., Rabbie’s Small Group Tours, Vegware, Soilutions and Radisson from Edinburgh and Taypack Potatoes, Stagecoach and Jessie Mac’s B&B in Perth, to name a few.
Gillian Bruce, chair of the VIBES Awards, said: “We want to hear from Scottish businesses that are working hard to make Scotland more environmentally aware – this could be down to a new product or service or an improved process that is resulting in environmental and business benefits. We’ve received some great entries so far but there is still time for businesses to enter and showcase their commitment to the environment.
“Sustainable practices are crucial to businesses of every kind and VIBES showcases some of the fantastic work being done by companies across Scotland to reduce their impact on the environment. We’d encourage anyone thinking of applying to get in touch with us if they have any questions or require support.”
Iain Gulland, Chief Executive, Zero Waste Scotland said: “The VIBES Awards are a great opportunity for sustainably minded businesses across Scotland to be rewarded for their commitment to the environment. We’ve seen some inspirational organisations showcased in previous years, and I would encourage all businesses to consider joining them in applying for the awards this year.”
Sponsoring the awards this year are Scottish Government, ScottishPower, Zero Waste Scotland, Brand-Rex, Chivas Brothers Pernod Ricard, Emec and The University of Stirling Management School. A number of previous VIBES winners have also pledged their support as VIBES Ambassadors and are encouraging other businesses to enter for their chance to win a coveted VIBES Award.
VIBES is a strategic partnership between Scottish Environment Protection Agency, Scottish Government, Scottish Water, Scottish Enterprise, Highland and Islands Enterprise, Zero Waste Scotland, Energy Saving Trust and Scotland’s 2020 Climate Group. The Awards are further supported by CBI Scotland, the Institute of Directors, the Federation of Small Businesses and Bright Green Business.
The Awards are accredited by the RSA Environment Awards Accreditation Scheme (www.rsaaccreditation.org).
For more information on VIBES or to obtain an application from, please visit www.vibes.org.uk.
Twitter: @VIBES_Awards