An innovative program to improve farming practices in the Macedon Ranges and a volunteer-led initiative to restore oyster reefs in Corio Bay have received the top awards in this year’s Premier’s Sustainability Awards.

Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio announced the winners of the 2021 awards in an online awards ceremony today, with The Nature Conservancy Australia receiving the Premier’s Recognition Award and the Premier’s Regional Recognition Award going to Macedon Ranges Shire Council.

Winners were awarded across six categories aligned to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. In each category a Community Champion Award recognises individuals and small organisations, and the Industry Leader Award celebrates medium and large organisations driving a sustainable future.

This year’s winners include an Ambulance Victoria paramedic for recycling uniforms for those in need, a business that developed world-leading software connecting apartment residents to a single rooftop solar system, and a Melbourne school on its way to net zero emissions by 2030, achieving a 35% reduction in 2020.

Not-for-profit group OzHarvest was recognised with an Industry Leader Award for its work rescuing surplus food that would otherwise go to waste.

Environmental and educational not-for-profit group Yarra Valley ECOSS was acknowledged with two Community Champion awards, in the Social and Economic Justice and Sustainable Places categories.

The awards, now in their 19th year, recognise Victorians who have demonstrated leadership and innovation in sustainable practices.  Winners were chosen by a broad range of independent environmental experts with sustainability and industry expertise.

To find out more about this year’s finalists and winners, visit https://www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/psa-2021-winners

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“From renewable and innovative technologies to vibrant community hubs, nature regeneration and conservation efforts, and recycling and waste management innovations, this year’s Premier’s Sustainability Award winners have set the standard for sustainable innovation.”

“I warmly congratulate everyone who submitted an entry to this year’s awards; every submission was testament to the passion and drive of many Victorians to ensure our environment is clean, healthy, and safe for years to come.”