For Immediate Use: Friday 29 September, 2017

A manufacturer pioneering environmentally-friendly insulation and a shopping centre composting food waste from over 100 businesses on site are among those being honoured for their outstanding contribution to Scotland’s sustainability ambitions.

Nearly 300 representatives from businesses and organisations across Scotland gathered together for the Scottish Resources Awards in Edinburgh (Thursday 28 September), recognising excellence in Scotland’s circular economy and resource management sectors.

Part of the Scottish Resources Conference – delivered by Zero Waste Scotland and partners CIWM and SEPA – the awards evening followed a packed two-day programme with keynote speeches from global experts, and attendance from decision-makers, entrepreneurs and investors from across Scotland and the UK.

This year’s awards attracted a high calibre of entries, and a total of 15 submissions for Best Circular Economy Initiative alone.

The 2017 winners were:

• Best Circular Economy Initiative – Industrial Nature
• Best Food Waste Initiative – Clyde Shopping Centre
• Best Litter Prevention Initiative – East Haven Together
• Outstanding Contribution – Anita Boyle, LAMH Recycle Ltd
• Rising Star of the Year – Fiona Gilbert, Remake Scotland

Iain Gulland, Chief Executive, Zero Waste Scotland, said:

“The Scottish Resources Awards grow in influence and reputation year on year, and we were delighted to receive an overwhelming number of entries to the 2017 awards. It was with great difficulty that our finalists were whittled down from a number of deserving submissions, and my hearty congratulations go out to all the winners and shortlisted finalists.

“The number of submissions we received this year is testament to Scotland’s leading circular economy progress, and the hard work that continues across the industry to drive a more sustainable, resilient Scotland.”

Dr Nicki Souter, chair of the CIWM Scotland Centre, said:

“Once again this year, these awards demonstrate what can be achieved when people and businesses innovate and collaborate to turn waste back into useful materials and products and reduce the impact of waste and litter on our society. The high quality submissions are a testament to the commitment we are seeing across Scotland to building a cleaner and more sustainable future.”

Terry A'Hearn, Chief Executive, SEPA, said:

“The calibre of this year’s entries has once again been exceptional. The innovation on display by each entrant, confirms that Scotland can positively influence the way we use and value our resources. Encouraging the right mind-set and practices for forward thinking businesses, will take us one step closer to living within our planet’s means to support us."

To find out more about the awards visit www.scottish-resources.com. Images of each of the winners are available upon request.

ENDS

Editor’s Notes

About Zero Waste Scotland

• Zero Waste Scotland exists to create a society where resources are valued and nothing is wasted. Our goal is to help Scotland realise the economic, environmental and social benefits of making best use of the world’s limited natural resources. We are funded to support delivery of the Scottish Government’s circular economy strategy and the EU Action Plan for the Circular Economy.
• Zero Waste Scotland launched the Resource Efficient Scotland programme in 2013 to help small to medium sized businesses and organisations save money and energy by using resources more efficiently. It is funded by the European Structural Funds Programme and the Scottish Government. Find out more at www.resourceefficientscotland.org.uk
• The Resource Efficient Circular Economy Accelerator Programme Fund is administered by Zero Waste Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Government. It is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
• The Scottish Government is the Managing Authority for the European Structural Funds 2014-20 Programme. For further information visit the website or follow @scotgovESIF.
• More information on all Zero Waste Scotland’s programmes can be found at www.zerowastescotland.org.uk. You can also keep up to date with the latest from Zero Waste Scotland though via our social media channels - Twitter | Facebook | Google Plus | LinkedIn

About CIWM

CIWM (Chartered Institution of Wastes Management) is the leading professional body for the resource and waste management sector representing around 6,000 individuals in the UK and overseas.

Established in 1898, CIWM is a non-profit making organisation, dedicated to the promotion of professional competence amongst waste managers. CIWM seeks to raise standards for those working in and with the sector by producing best practice guidance, developing educational and training initiatives, and providing information on key waste-related issues.

More information can be found at www.ciwm.co.uk   

About SEPA

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) is Scotland’s principal environmental regulator, protecting and improving Scotland’s environment. Our role is to ensure that the environment and human health are protected, that Scotland’s natural resources and services are used as sustainably as possible and contribute to sustainable economic growth.

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