OUTSTANDING businesses in the Solent region have been recognised at an awards ceremony.

Swanwick-based air traffic management firm NATS won the big tick in the sustainable products and services category at the South East Responsible Business Awards Showcase, organised by Business in the Community.

It received the award for its work developing the 3Di metric, a calculation which helps minimise aircraft fuel and CO2 emissions by identifying the optimal trajectory for aircraft flights operating in UK airspace.

In its first year of use, the metric has saved 25,000 tonnes of fuel and 80,000 tonnes of CO2.
Other big tick winners included Boygues UK for its UK STEM challenge programme, and Lettuce Flowers Ltd for its sustainable event flowers.

Stephen Howard, chief executive of Business in the Community, said: “Day in, day out, forward-thinking, responsible businesses and exceptional individuals in the south-east make a significant and valuable contribution to society, working towards developing more resilient communities, stimulating local economies, creating diverse, skilled and healthy workforces and addressing skills shortages.

“Far too often, these businesses and individuals are unsung heroes. The Responsible Business Awards seek to address this, shining a much-needed spotlight on the powerful force for good that business can make.

“Every winning firm and individual is playing a key part in building a new contract between business and society and creating a more sustainable future for all. The big tick and local impact award represents a powerful symbol of businesses doing more to bring about change.

“I would like to congratulate all this year’s winners.”

Gary Medlow, managing director of awards sponsors Fasset, said: “I make no secret of my belief that ‘if you can you should’ and so I was delighted to host this event on behalf of BITC and support the businesses who are actively involved in debate, idea-sharing, engagement and collaboration across the wider local community.”