New Category Recognises Economic Development

New Category Recognises Economic Development

A Sustainable Economic Development Award has been launched as a new category in the Environment Bay of Plenty Sustainable Business Awards this year.

This award recognises initiatives undertaken by businesses, clusters and other organisations within the region that are contributing to the economic sustainability of the Bay of Plenty, says Alan Bougen, Chairman of the Sustainable Business Network BOP.

“There are many great initiatives that are often not seen by many people and these Awards are a great opportunity to showcase these successful programmes,” says Mr Bougen.

The Environment Bay of Plenty Sustainable Business Awards are the only regional awards of their kind in the country and are run by the Sustainable Business Network.

The Sustainable Economic Development category is sponsored by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE).

CNew Zealand Trade and Enterprise supports regions to develop and implement sustainable economic growth strategies through its Regional Partnership Programme. Western Bay of Plenty regional economic development advisor Helen Fletcher says the programme helps business in the region to highlight where demand is being driven from for their products and services as well as encouraging businesses to address issues impacting on their cost competitiveness in the global market place. “This award recognises those businesses and organisations whose value-added activities are helping increase skills and incomes for people, increase export earnings and attract quality venture capital into the region.” Environment Bay of Plenty is again major sponsor of the awards. Chairman John Cronin says this year’s theme - Sustainable business makes sense - reflects the growing realisation that sustainability is good for business, the environment and the community.

“These awards give us an opportunity to support businesses on the path towards sustainability. By doing this, we hope to contribute to the creation of role models for the community.

“Businesses can learn a lot from entering the awards and they get some great resource material to refer to, as well as an individual written report from the judging panel of sustainability and business experts,” he says.

The awards are supported by Environment Bay of Plenty, the major sponsor, as well as the University of Waikato Management School, TrustPower and New Zealand Trade and Enterprise. Nominations stay open until April 23. Forms are available from SBN 07 9288778 or kathryn@sustainable.org.nz.

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