Australia’s most coveted sustainability awards feature new categories for nature

Banksia Foundation

Launch Your Sustainability Initiative Onto Australia’s Most Prestigious Spotlight And Gain National Recognition

Progress towards Australia’s commitment to reverse biodiversity loss by 2030 will be celebrated through one of the two new award categories in this year’s National Banksia Sustainability Awards, which opens today.

The highly anticipated 35th National Banksia Sustainability Awards has introduced categories for Climate Impact Technology and Nature Positive to recognise and celebrate positive environmental outcomes.

Banksia Foundation CEO Graz van Egmond says the Climate Impact Technology Award provides a platform for start-ups to showcase their innovative solutions and contribute to a sustainable future. “The Climate Impact Technology Award recognises and supports ground-breaking technologies addressing climate change and driving positive environmental impact,” Ms Van Egmond says. “It was developed in collaboration with the NSW Government through the Office of Energy & Climate Change.”

The Nature Positive Award celebrates achievements in conservation, habitat restoration, and species protection. It recognises individuals, organisations and initiatives leading the way in environmental management, ecosystem rehabilitation, and innovative research and technology for preserving biodiversity.

“In signing an international agreement in December 2022 to reverse biodiversity loss by 2030 Australia has joined a global movement to champion a nature positive agenda,” says Ms Van Egmond. “The renaming of the Biodiversity Award to the Nature Positive Award supports this agenda and highlights remarkable contributions to safeguarding, restoring, and promoting the richness of nature.”

The Banksia Awards stand out for their comprehensive coverage of sustainability issues based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With a diverse range of categories, the awards highlight crucial sustainability topics spanning from preserving biodiversity to responsible placemaking, promoting a healthy planet and healthy people, and fostering diversity and inclusion. This holistic approach ensures that the Banksia Awards capture the breadth and depth of sustainability efforts in Australia.

“Whether it’s implementing ground-breaking technologies, driving community engagement, or spearheading transformative sustainability strategies, the Banksia Awards provide a dynamic platform to celebrate the impact of individuals, organisations, and businesses, and inspire others to do the same,” Ms Van Egmond says. “By sharing their stories and achievements, entrants contribute to a more sustainable and resilient Australia.”

To submit an entry, visit the Banksia Foundation website by the 18th of December 2023. You can also refer an initiative or organisation that you thinks is deserving of this accolade.

About us:

The Banksia Foundation is one of Australia’s most respected sustainability organisations. For over three decades, the foundation has been dedicated to recognising, promoting, and celebrating sustainability achievements across all sectors of society. Through prestigious awards programs, knowledge-sharing initiatives, and advocacy efforts, the Banksia Foundation plays a pivotal role in driving positive change and inspiring sustainable practices in Australia.

/Public Release.