Finalists announced for European Awards for the Environment
The 12 finalists for the 2004 European Awards for the Environment, organised by the European Commission's Environment DG, have been announced. Many of the shortlisted companies are introducing new technology, and thus contributing to sustainable development. The awards are intended to recognise and promote organisations making an outstanding contribution to sustainable development. 'The number of companies competing for our environment awards shows that getting recognition for sustainability is important as a sales factor,' said EU Environment Commissioner Margot Wallström. The finalists include the French company Papeteries Matussiere & Forest for the launch of their 100 per cent recycled coated paper, and Belgium's Cotinfi NV, which has developed a carpet manufacturing technology that uses an ultrasonic welding technique and therefore eliminates the need for glue or foreign adhesives. Also nominated are Rugby Ltd from the UK, which has developed a new cement-making process that reduces sulphur dioxide emissions, and Austria's SolarFrost Research, which has designed an alternative cooling technology. The finalists were selected by an independent jury composed of representatives from industry, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), academia and public authorities. Four winners will receive the European Award for the Environment on 1 June.