Yes we won – this was a very proud moment for Yarra Valley Estate we were joint winners in the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage Sustainability Leadership Awards for Small to Medium Organisations with Southern Cross Resorts from Port Macquarie.
This award was designed to reward organisations that demonstrate outstanding leadership in adopting practices that position environmental and social performance as priority areas of corporate responsibility and performance, alongside financial results. It acknowledges those organisations that understand their broader societal responsibilities and their potential influence within the community to foster sustainability, as well as within their own supply chains.
“The judges were impressed by the commitment of Yarra Valley Estate to sustainability. They have taken a holistic approach and have achieved in terms of – natural habitat and wildlife protection, growing their own vegetables, sourcing produce and staff locally, use of non-hazardous chemicals, water independence, and aspiring to carbon neutrality. They have also used clever ways to engage their customers in helping to minimise their footprint such as the use of innovative switch off lights signs. The judges were especially impressed by their commitment to social sustainability where it donates 11% of net revenue to community programs including supporting projects in remote communities in PNG. ”
Social Sustainability is equally as important to Yarra Valley Estate as is good environmental management. Global best practice contribution to CSR is 2% of total revenue. In Australia, the London Benchmark Group www.lbg-australia.com measures and reports the contributions of leading Australia’s companies. In 2014 Australian Business who use the LBG contributed 1% of total revenue to the community. In the same year YVE contributed more than 11% of total revenue to the community – more than 10 times that of LBG members so it’s no wonder, YVE has been recognised for their commitment and leadership to sustainable business practices.
This is just the beginning for us as an organisation as we continue in our drive to reduce our carbon footprint and become the first carbon neutral venue in the Yarra Valley.