RWM 2016 launches search for the Rising Stars of resource management

The showcase event for recycling innovation, RWM 2016 is launching a national search to find the industry’s ‘Rising Stars.’ The competition will celebrate trailblazing initiatives that challenge the way resource management works and inspire a new generation of efficiency managers.Aimed at young entrepreneurs within the industry, RWM 2016 organisers, i2i Events Group in partnership with the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management, are looking for individuals who have introduced new recycling practices within the last three years that are helping to transform their organisation and the industry as a whole.

Individuals based in or operating in the UK who are developing innovative ways to reduce waste, through circular economy approaches are invited to apply via a short registration form on the RWM 2016 website at http://www.rwmexhibition.com/content/Are-you-the-next-rising-star-in-resource-management

Entrants have until Monday 1^st August 2016 to submit their 250 words entry for the judges’ consideration. They should outline the good initiatives being developed and include examples of how efforts have inspired change within their organisation, what benefits have come about as a result and include supporting evidence where possible. With so much drive towards circular economy business models, the award is sure to attract a host of ground-breaking entries.

Three finalists will be announced in mid-August. They will then have the chance to present their innovation to a panel of judges at RWM 2016 & The Energy Event in September, which will outline in depth, the reasons as to why they should win.

Nicola Meadows, event director, Environment Portfolio, i2i Events Group said: “We are committed to supporting the next generation of waste managers, sustainability managers, business owners, environmental entrepreneurs, inventors and leaders for this industry and the wider UK environment sector.

“Rising stars is aimed at anyone working within the waste, energy, renewables and water sectors, that has introduced or spearheaded innovative ways of managing their company’s resources. What we’re looking for are schemes that have increased cost-efficiencies, reduced waste or energy consumption, promoted behaviour change or contributed in some way to more sustainable practices.”

Over the coming months, entries will be reviewed and those who demonstrate pioneering ingenuity will have the opportunity to get involved in providing images and video diaries charting innovation which will be uploaded to the RWM website.

The competition will culminate in three finalists being selected to present to a panel of judges at the co-located event, RWM 2016. The winner will receive a valuable CIWM training package and funding towards their initiative worth over £2,000.

The panel of judges comprises key industry influencers:

• Barry Dennis, RWM chairman
• Steve Lee, chief exec, CIWM
• Patrick Allcorn, head of local energy, DECC
• Tim McManan Smith, The Energyst Mag
• Arthur Kay, winner of last year’s competition
• Karma Ockenden, The Water Report

Arthur Kay, CEO of Bio-Bean, last year’s winner said: “Winning the Rising Star award was a fantastic accolade that represents hard work by the bio-bean team. It’s great to be recognised for our efforts in recycling waste coffee grounds into advanced biofuels, and the accolade offers future winners unparalleled exposure in the waste management sector.”

If you would like to find out more about the competition or submit your entry, visit the RWM website at http://www.rwmexhibition.com/content/Are-you-the-next-rising-star-in-resource-management and share your steps to recycling innovation using #EnviroRisingStars. You can either enter yourself or be entered by a colleague. All individuals that recommend a colleague that is shortlisted will receive a £50 prize award.

For more information about Europe’s largest and best-established event for resource efficiency visit www.rwmexhibition.com, call 00 44 203 033 2049 or email info@rwmexhibition.com.