The 2023 Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) Annual Awards has opened for applications, and for the first time two main categories are open to the wider industry, not just members.
Positioned as Australia’s annual celebration of sustainable packaging leadership, APCO’s Annual Awards recognise businesses and sustainability professionals that are driving progress towards a circular economy for packaging in Australia, according to the organisation.
This year, the Awards return with a host of new features, including a new independent judging panel coordinated by the Banksia Foundation, featuring esteemed professionals from across the packaging industry value chain.
In a bid to foster a culture of inclusivity, and amplify the collective impact of sustainability efforts, this year APCO is opening up entries to non-members. APCO says this inclusive approach encourages organisations from all corners of the industry to participate and collaborate towards a sustainable packaging future.
“The APCO Awards celebrate the visionaries, the risk-takers, and the gamechangers who are shaping the future of packaging here in Australia,” said Chris Foley, APCO’s CEO.
“This year, we are excited to be taking that celebration to new heights – by inviting applications from any business here in Australia.
“So, whether your team is pioneering reusable packaging or changing the packaging conversation through cutting-edge consumer education – don’t miss out on this chance to have your achievements recognised.”
CATEGORIES OPEN TO ALL BUSINESSES
- Our Packaging Future Awards: Open to any business operating in Australia, New Zealand or the Pacific Islands, the Our Packaging Future Awards celebrate excellence in the areas of SPGs Implementation, Reuse, Industry Education, Consumer Education, Improved Recycling Systems, and Recycled Content.
- Sustainability Champion Award: This APCO award recognises individuals that are making a tangible difference on sustainable packaging in Australia, New Zealand or the Pacific Islands.
CATEGORIES OPEN TO APCO MEMBERS ONLY
- Industry Sector Awards (Full & SME): These awards recognise the top organisations promoting sustainability and innovation in their respective industry sector.
- Highest Performing New Member Award (Full & SME): This award celebrates the outstanding achievements of APCO’s newest members, highlighting their dedication and commitment to sustainability.
- Best of the Best Reporting Excellence Award (Full & SME): These awards are given to the highest performing APCO member for a Full Report and an SME Report out of the APCO Industry Sector award winners.
To apply for the awards, register at the Banksia application portal here. The deadline to submit is 25 August.
For a full list of award categories, visit the APCO Annual Awards website here. Tickets for the awards ceremony and conference will be available for purchase from 8 August.
The APCO Annual Awards will be held on 2 November at the Maritime Museum Sydney. This year’s awards ceremony will also be preceded by a half-day conference exploring the theme: The Future of Packaging.
