The John Lawrie Group is among 38 Scottish companies chosen as finalists for the 2017 VIBES – Scottish Environment Business Awards.
The 18th annual award scheme recognises the commitment, actions and achievements of Scottish businesses working hard to reduce their impact on the environment.
The finalists have been selected across nine individual award categories and the John Lawrie Group has been shortlisted in the Circular Economy category.
Judges were looking for evidence of broader commitments to sustainable development, such as an environmental management system, and a demonstration that the company has an existing commitment to reducing environmental impacts through a Circular Economy approach.
Further evidence was sought of the importance placed at John Lawrie Group on the principles of Circular Economy with the company’s overall operations.
Gillian Bruce, chair of the VIBES Awards, said: “Congratulations to this year’s finalists, each of which has impressed judges with their commitment and innovation in environmental and business best practice.
“VIBES is dedicated to recognising companies which have taken significant steps to reducing their environmental impact.
"Over the 18 years since the first VIBES ceremony, we have seen entries from businesses of all sizes and sectors, highlighting the range of businesses supporting Scotland’s sustainable development. We look forward to celebrating with many of these businesses and our new finalists at this year’s awards.”
VIBES believes that sustainable best practice isn’t just good for the environment but is also beneficial for business performance with companies reporting enhanced competitiveness and both environmental and financial savings.
Circular Economy looks beyond the current “take, make and dispose” industrial model and instead adopts a restorative and regenerative approach, relying on design and innovation. The circular model is underpinned by a transition to renewable energy sources while minimising negative impacts.
Ray Grant, John Lawrie Group’s Environmental Director, has welcomed the news;
“Following a rigorous application process, we’re delighted to have been shortlisted for these prestigious environmental awards and are very much looking forward to the awards ceremony later this year.
“Here at John Lawrie, we are fully committed to the Circular Economy model which is being actively driven across the UK and Europe with Scotland at the very forefront.
“Each year, we reuse tens of thousands of tonnes of various redundant items from the oil and gas industry which would otherwise be scrapped and recycled. By establishing sustainable reuse markets, we not only help our customers to be more environmentally efficient but also deliver enhanced financial value.
“By choosing to reuse redundant oilfield pipe and tubulars to the construction sector rather than sell them for scrap, for example, the John Lawrie Group is conducting business in a more economical and sustainable way”.
The VIBES – Scottish Environment Business Awards will take place in Edinburgh in November.
