The Observer announces shortlist for 2014 Ethical Awards

Judges have revealed finalists for the ninth Observer Ethical Awards, the competition aimed at rewarding exceptional individuals and businesses in the field of sustainability and green living.

A jury formed by ethical living veterans will announce winners in June at the so-called Green Oscars ceremony. The awards are organised by the Observer and green cleaning firm Ecover.

Lancaster Cohousing, Westmill Solar Co-operative and social enterprise Low Carbon Hub are among finalists for the community energy project category.

Virgin-sponsored travel finalists are Jakes Hotel Jamaica, Unseen Tours, Myths and Mountains and READ Global, while among ethical fashion candidates are Beyond Skin, Antithesis and the Ecoture Project.

Founder of the awards and judge Lucy Siegle said, “This year’s shortlist is the most competitive I can remember in the history of the Observer Ethical Awards. We’ve had a record number of votes already for the people and plans that really make a difference from the best energy saving households in the UK to the young green champions showing the most ecological intelligence.

“The shortlist is a barometer of the environmental and social campaigns that people really care about in the UK and shows our huge national appetite for greener, smarter living.”

Among shortlisted businesses are Lush, insect-eating promoter Ento and a business offering local delivery service for companies.

Hackney-based organic farming business Growing Communities and Irish eco-salon RoCo have been shortlisted for the retailer of the year award.

Community group Andover Trees United, Roch Valley Educational Partnership and a project for Nairobi slums called Mama Margaret’s run for the category of Ecover Young Green Champions.

Among those nominated for the category ‘campaigner of the year’ are two anti-fracking activists, Vanessa Vine and Anne Power, and musician Brian May for his anti-badger cull activism.

Photo: bernadg via flickr

Further reading:

Observer Ethical Awards 2014: a look inside the ‘green Oscars’

Nominations open for 2014 Observer Ethical Awards

Sustainability top priority for quarter of British small businesses

Why businesses must ‘shape and innovate’

The Guide to Sustainable Spending 2013