Moray eco innovators up for awards

A FORRES eco technology company is in the running for two national awards.

The VIBES – Scottish Environment Business Awards focus on inspiring companies to help meet Scotland’s ambition to be a world leader in tackling climate change.

Biomatrix Water Solutions, based at Horizon Scotland in Forres, has won through to two categories – Adapting Scotland and Hydro National Scotland – in the shortlist for the prestigious awards.

The company integrates engineering and ecology to create habitats, improve biodiversity, design waterscapes and wastewater solutions, and improve water quality.

Businesses in Scotland experienced at first hand the risks associated with climate change last summer when some food producers and whisky distillers faced water scarcity. The awards highlight the benefits to be had by following environmental best practice – not least financial savings.

Bob Downes, chairman of the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) and head of the VIBES judging panel, said: "The scale of environmental challenges facing humanity is enormous, with a real urgency to act.

"The successful businesses of tomorrow will be those who embrace the economic opportunity of sustainable solutions to environmental challenges."

Scotland's Environment Secretary, Roseanna Cunningham, said: "We are all aware of the urgent environmental issues affecting our planet and business has a vital role to play in Scotland’s continuing journey to a net-zero society.

"It is important that we recognise those who are leading on action to develop sustainable solutions and environmental practices while seizing the economic benefits of embracing a vibrant and innovative circular economy."

The winners will be announced at a ceremony on November 14 at the Doubletree by Hilton hotel, in Glasgow.

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