Today (10 February), six Square Mile organisations have been commended for their work to protect the environment.

Now in their 29^th year, the 2023 Clean City Awards had a focus on firms leading the way in the race to net zero.

The gongs also celebrated the sweepers and other workers who help keep the City’s streets clean and gardeners who maintain the Square Mile’s more than 200 green spaces.

Chairman of the City of London Corporation’s Environment Committee, Keith Bottomley, said:

“We all have an important role to play in getting to net zero.

“Cutting carbon emissions and protecting the environment is the right thing to do for both individuals and businesses.

“It is heartening to see the Square Mile continuing to lead the way on a range on initiatives – from sustainable procurement and circular economy to improving air quality and supporting employees to make a difference.”

Trophies made from recycled plastic reclaimed from the hospitality industry were handed to the winners across 10 categories:

Chairman’s Cup, Large Site (sponsored by Biffa) - Bank of England

This year, the Chairman’s Cup highlighted organisations’ progress towards net zero. The Bank of England was recognised for reducing carbon emissions in their own operations, as well as in their procurement and supply chain. They were the first central bank to require banks and insurers to manage climate-based risks.

Chairman’s Cup, Facilities Management (sponsored by Biffa) - Cannon Bridge Properties, BNP Paribas

Cannon Bridge Properties made an investment of around £2 million over the last three years in LED lights and new technology that allows more sustainable waste and facilities management. This has allowed them to achieve their target of a 15% year-on-year reduction in energy usage.

Air Quality and Climate Action - White & Case (sponsored by Skanska)

White & Case have helped improve air quality by incentivising sustainable commuting amongst staff, using an ultra-low emission taxi supplier, and reducing unnecessary business travel. They consolidate deliveries with other organisations, source items locally and enforce a no engine-idling policy for delivery drivers.

Communications and Engagement - Investec plc

Investec plc’s ‘No Time To Waste Week’ encouraged employees to rethink their consumption habits and reduce waste. The campaign included a zero waste cook-along, a clothes swap and a tech take-back to reclaim used electronic devices.

Plastic Free City (sponsored by Aldgate Connect BID and EC BID) - Cannon Place

Cannon Place reduced the plastic used by its building management team by around 40% by changing the cleaning products used. Other initiatives included encouraging employees to reduce plastic packaging and single use items.

Resource and Circular Economy (sponsored by Veolia) - Barings

Barings won the Resource and Circular Economy award for a second year for initiatives that have reduced consumption and waste year on year, while providing meals to people in food poverty.

Sweeper Awards (sponsored by the Worshipful Company of Environmental Cleaners) - Winner: Keith McCrindle

Keith works for Veolia on the morning street cleansing service and is a regular volunteer for events in the Square Mile. Described as a friendly face in the City, he has been praised for his hard work and high standards.

Operative Awards (sponsored by Veolia) – Winner: Tony Martin
Tony is described as an “asset” to Veolia’s night service. His work is often the unseen effort that keeps the City ready for the morning visitors to the Square Mile.

Gardener’s Awards (sponsored by KPS) – Winner: Steven Simms

Steven has been a gardener for the City Corporation for over 20 years. The gardens he is responsible for include the award-winning Postman’s Park and Christchurch Greyfriars. He has been praised for his “positive can-do attitude and willingness to help out.”

The City Corporation’s Climate Action Strategy commits the organisation to achieving net zero carbon emissions in its own operations by 2027.

It also aims to become net-zero across its investments and supply chain by 2040 - and to support the achievement of net zero for the whole Square Mile by the same year.

All businesses located within the City of London can enter the Clean City Awards Scheme and receive support to become more sustainable. The scheme’s membership reopens in April 2023.

Notes to editors

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk