Brussels -- 16 companies from nine European countries have been shortlisted for the European Business Awards for the Environment (EBAE), the EU scheme celebrating those businesses leading the transition to a sustainable economy. In addition, 12 companies have been identified as the "Rising Stars"* of the European sustainable business scene.

Marcus Gover, CEO of WRAP and President of the 2020 EBAE Jury, which met, remotely, on 23-24 June to review 94 applications from 16 European countries, said:

"We need business leadership in sustainability now more than ever. Despite the difficulties caused by the COVID-19 crisis, we received a large number of high-quality entries. These companies live and breathe sustainability, and prove that green is good for business. We had very difficult decisions to make, and cannot wait to announce the winners later this year".

The Finalists are up for six awards: Management (micro and small companies); Management (medium and large companies); Product & Services; Process; Developing Country Cooperation; and Business & Biodiversity.

The EBAE 2020 applicants showed resilience and commitment to change and improve their business practices, processes, products and services to fit within the limits of the planet. They all stood out for their bold leadership towards a sustainable economic recovery for Europe, well aligned with the priorities of the European Green Deal; with a profound respect for the environment at the very core of their business principles.

Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in Brussels in November 2020.

NOTES TO THE EDITOR

About the European Business Awards for the Environment

The European Business Awards for the Environment, an initiative of the European Commission's Directorate-General for the Environment, recognise businesses that successfully combine innovation, competitiveness and outstanding environmental performance.

The Awards are held every two years and are underpinned by a series of national environmental award schemes; only winners, runners-up, and companies especially commended in national competitions are eligible to apply for the European award.

* Rising Stars are companies which have made a particular impression on the jurors but are not shortlisted for an Award. This can be in respect of: a company with an innovative and exciting product/service/process/management approach where activities are still at an early stage and not yet fully proven; or a company that is a pioneer in a national or regional context, but not necessarily at a European level.

More information on the Shortlist, the selection procedure and past EBAE competitions can be found at: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/awards/index.html.

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