"It's an opportunity for companies that are focussed on sustainable business practices to profile and showcase their success and what they have achieved so far."
With categories for small, medium and large businesses as well as an emerging category for those new to sustainability, it's also a chance to get some expert advice on how to better incorporate sustainable practices into your everyday operations.
"I meet with the company for an interview and they complete an entry form where they tell their story and try to wow the judges," she said.
"For all entrants we provide an assessment of where they are at and help them with an action plan for future development."
She said the judges looked holistically at a business - from management's vision to how that translated into strategy and operations and how the company worked within the community.
"It's not all about just being green. That's important but it's also about economic viability," she said. "It's about companies taking a long term view of where they want to be . . . sustainability is a long term journey."
The Kawerau site of SCA Hygiene Australasia won the Bay of Plenty Sustainable Business of the Year award last year and went on to be commended at the national awards. It will be entering again this year, according to sustainability manager operations Dave Cronshaw.
"We want to win the national award," he said. "It's really cool to get recognition in an industry that does not often get recognition for good things."
He said sustainability was a huge priority for his global company, which manufactures tissue and paper products, and was something they had worked hard on for the past six years.
"From 2006 to now at the Kawerau site we have reduced our energy consumption by the equivalent of 5500 houses and reduced water consumption by 351 Olympic size swimming pools."
Mr Cronshaw said SCA was focussed on continuous improvement, which not only benefited the environment but also the bottom line of the business.
"I think we have got a really good story to tell," he said. "We are doing some good in an industry that is often vilified."
He encouraged other businesses to consider entering the awards, but also hoped others would get on board with sustainable practices and begin measuring what they do.
The gala cocktail party and awards ceremony will be held on September 28 at the Blue Baths, with a 30s glam theme. Winners receive a "big glittering trophy" and entry to the national awards
For details or to enter contact Jenny Milson (07) 577 9355 or (021) 686 645 or email jenny@sustainable.org.nz. Entries close July 29.
