The organisations and individuals leading positive environmental change were recognised at the recent ‘Premier’s Sustainability Awards’ in Victoria.
This prestigious annual sustainability awards program celebrates Victorian businesses, local governments and communities leading the way in sustainable innovation and practices. Each of the six categories has two winners, which were refreshed in 2021 to align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos congratulated the 12 awards winners, commenting: “The Premier’s Sustainability Awards recognise Victorians that are dedicated to sustainability and who are working towards a thriving circular economy.”
A broad range of businesses and community groups were championed, from Bunyip Renewables Action Group, whose vision is to transition their community to 100 per cent renewable energy by 2030; UPPAREL, a textile recovery and recycling initiative aiming to combat the global textile waste crisis; and Porous Lane, a company turning waste tyres into permeable pavement.
Premier Jacinta Allan personally selected the winners of the two overall awards. The Premier’s Recognition Award was presented to Assembled Threads and Geelong Sustainability received the Premier’s Regional Recognition Award.
Matt Genever, Interim CEO, of Sustainability Victoria, said, “All of these winners have challenged the status quo and shown true leadership in their fields. I feel inspired and elated to hear their stories and learn about the difference they’re making.”
To view the profiles of the winners and finalists, visit www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/psa-2023-winners or see list below.
Premier’s Recognition Award
- Assembled Threads
Premier’s Regional Recognition Award
- Geelong Sustainability
Circular Economy Innovation
- Industry Leader: ecologiQ
- Community Champion: Wholefoods Unwrapped
Future Energy
- Industry Leader: Kinetic Melbourne
- Community Champion: Bunyip Renewables Action Group
Healthy and Fair Society
- Industry Leader: Geelong Sustainability
- Community Champion: Assembled Threads
Thriving Environment
- Industry Leader: Cassinia Environmental
- Community Champion: My Smart Garden
Sustainable Places
- Industry Leader: Nightingale Housing
- Community Champion: Brimbank City Council
Waste and Recycling Solutions
- Industry Leader: UPPAREL
- Community Champion: Porous Lane
