Waterford businesses go for green in this year's Glas Awards with €5k prize up for grabs

Waterford's most eco-conscious companies are being urged to showcase their climate credentials as the prestigious Glas Awards return for their fourth year.

Run by the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Waterford in association with Waterford City and County Council, the awards celebrate local businesses making real strides in sustainability, from cutting waste and energy use to embracing renewable power.

Launching this year's search, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan said: "The link between the Council and business in Waterford is so important. Last year, following a call by Waterford City and County Council, over 1,000 local businesses signed up to a Business Pledge for A Cleaner, Greener Waterford.

"The scheme, originally launched in 2022, has supported thousands of businesses across the city and county in transitioning to carbon neutrality by identifying opportunities for reducing energy usage and costs, exploring the potential of renewable energy while availing of a discount on their commercial rates.

"These awards are another opportunity to reward businesses for their climate actions," he added. 

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There are two categories, Green Micro Enterprise of the Year (10 employees or fewer) and Green SME of the Year (11–50 employees), with each winner receiving €2,500 and a specially designed trophy.

Gráinne Kennedy, Climate Action Coordinator with Waterford City and County Council, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan and Head of Enterprise at the Local Enterprise Office Waterford, Gareth Evans launching this year's Glas Awards. Photo: Patrick Browne

Gareth Evans, Head of Enterprise at LEO Waterford, said: "We find small changes can really make a big impact. Our clients understand the growing importance of sustainability, both in business and in the world around us.

"What we show them through our 'Green for Business' initiative is an understanding of the significant benefits that it can have for a business, on everything from efficiencies to cost savings."

Gráinne Kennedy, Climate Action Coordinator with Waterford City and County Council, added: "Waterford business is taking on the challenge of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in their operations, to make Waterford a sustainable place to work and do business.

"Every aspect of the community has a role to play, and these awards are a great opportunity to showcase all that these businesses are doing."

Entries are now open at LEO Waterford until September 4, 2025, with the final taking place in The Garden Room, Waterford Treasures on October 8, 2025.

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