The Victorian 2013 Premier’s Sustainability Awards have been announced, showcasing a slice of the positive impact small business is making in Australia.
Taking out the top gong in the Small and Medium Enterprises category was Rae-Line, a family owned and run business.
In the business of manufacturing soft trim components such as upholstery, leather and vinyl trims and carpet for the transport industry for the past 41 years, the business has been proactive in ensuring its own sustainability.
In 2012, Rae-Line appointed an Environmental Coordinator and developed an Environmental and Sustainability Policy, supported by a number of core business activities each aimed at improving environmental performance.
As a result of their policy, the company installed Victoria’s second largest privately owned solar power system – meaning each of the business’ seven sites now 100 per cent solar powered.
“Rae-Line is a great example of a Victorian manufacturer showing leadership and ingenuity,” Sustainability Victoria CEO Stan Krpan said.
Now in their eleventh year, the Premier’s Sustainability Awards celebrate efficient use of water, resources and energy, better waste management and recycling practices, the enhancement of the environment and effective, practical community action.
Overall winner for the night, recipient of the Premier’s Recognition Award, was a project by Moonee Valley City Council and Wingate Avenue Community Centre for introducing recycling to a community housing estate.
The Premier also chose Victoria Carpets as the winner of the inaugural Premier’s Regional Recognition Award.
