Two Kildare businesses win prestigious National Environmental Awards at 2023 Pakman Awards

Bord na Móna (BNM) and Refillz Zero Waste have been named as winners at the 2023 Pakman Awards. 

The 2023 Pakman awards, which took place on October 26 last (Thursday) at The Shelbourne Hotel in Dublin, saw representatives from leading businesses and community groups come together to recognise excellence in recycling and waste management.

All category winners on the night were automatically put forward for the Overall Pakman Award, which was won by community organisation, The Killarney Park & The Ross. 

Speaking at the 2023 Pakman Awards, Séamus Clancy, CEO of Repak, said: "We are delighted to celebrate an extraordinary group of environmental champions at the ninth annual Pakman Awards this evening.

"Each year, we continue to be inspired by the phenomenal efforts of those making a positive impact in waste management and mitigation procedures.

"Now, more than ever, it is important to champion sustainability, and tonight, our winners have truly shown us that the future is bright."

He continued: "This year saw some of the highest quality entries we’ve ever had from companies, businesses, community groups and individuals, reflecting their commitment to help reach our future EU recycling targets and protect our planet for future generations.  

"The standard of this year’s entries was not only exceptional but serves as inspiration for others in how to deliver exemplary environmental practices."

"I would like to thank our sponsors, congratulate all the winners and finalists and extend a special congratulations to The Killarney Park & The Ross, the winner of the 2023 Overall Pakman Award," Mr Clancy concluded.

BNM was awarded the Waste Recovery Operator – Commercial and Household Award for investing in new technology and systems which minimise landfill and result in the recovery of more useful resources.

As part of the company’s journey to decreasing landfill, BNM introduced new technology, which separates waste materials into its component parts.

According to BNM this resulted in 25,000 tonnes of food and organic waste being transformed into compost and over 4 million tyres were recycled.

Refillz Zero Waste was awarded the Waste Prevention Award for its work to reduce packaging and food waste.

Since opening its first store, Refillz Zero Waste has accumulated considerably less household and shop waste when compared to a regular shop at a supermarket.

The business now offers 450 sustainable products and hopes to grow this offering further. 

Repak’s Pakman Awards are held annually and celebrate Ireland’s recycling and waste management champions who lead the way in their commitments to sustainability and the environment.

Another highlight from this year’s awards saw three charities and community organisations, Naas Lions Club, Laura Lynn Foundation, and Dublin Simon Community receive a €1,000 donation each.

Charities were nominated by attendees and pulled from a charity draw on the night. 

Pictured at the 2023 Pakman Awards are (L-R): Jim Kells, Former Chair of the Irish Waste Management Association, and Cormac Manning, Managing Director at Bord na Móna. Pic: Naoise Culhane.