Sustainable Awards at North East Trophies

As a small business that supplies corporate trophies and awards, we know that sustainability is very important.  Although trophies are important to the recipient and the person giving them, they are not considered an essential item, so we need to be aware of the affect they can have on the environment.

Lets talk about trophy materials.

Why is bamboo sustainable?

Bamboo is considered sustainable for several reasons. First and foremost, bamboo is a fast-growing and renewable resource. Unlike hardwood trees, which can take decades to mature, bamboo can grow up to three feet in a single day and reach full maturity in just three to five years. This rapid growth rate makes bamboo an attractive alternative to traditional trophy materials like plastic, metal and resin.

Additionally, bamboo requires very little water to grow, making it a more water-efficient crop than other materials. Bamboo also doesn't require pesticides or fertilizers to thrive, making it a healthier and more environmentally friendly option. This makes bamboo a sustainable and eco-friendly material for a wide range of products, including flooring, furniture, textiles, and even trophies.

Furthermore, bamboo has a positive impact on the environment due to its ability to sequester carbon. Bamboo absorbs more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than most other plants, making it a valuable tool in the fight against climate change.

When we decided to look for an alternative material for our awards, we realised that bamboo was the perfect match.

Bamboo Awards

Due to its sustainability and durability, bamboo has become a popular material for trophies and awards. Bamboo awards are not only eco-friendly but also elegant and unique. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and designs, making them suitable for different occasions and events.

Bamboo awards are also customizable, making them an ideal choice for companies and organizations that prioritize sustainability and want to promote their environmental values.  Let's face it, every company should be doing this by now. These awards can be engraved or printed with logos, messages, and other designs, making them a memorable and meaningful way to recognize and reward achievements.

Another benefit of using bamboo for trophies and awards is that it can be recycled or repurposed at the end of its life cycle. Unlike plastic trophies, which can end up in landfills, bamboo trophies and awards are biodegradable and can even be composted.

Because bamboo is a fast-growing and renewable resource we think it is the perfect addition to our collection.  We are confident these new trophies will fit in with our aims to focus on sustainability in all parts of our business.  You can see more of what we are doing in-house to help the environment here.

Is glass sustainable?

Glass really is considered sustainable.  Although not on the level of Bamboo, glass is a 100% recyclable material, meaning it can be recycled indefinitely without losing its quality. Recycling glass also reduces the need for virgin materials and conserves energy. In fact, recycling glass saves energy because recycled glass melts at a lower temperature than virgin glass, which saves fuel and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

The production of glass has a lower impact on the environment compared to other materials as glass is made from natural materials: sand, soda ash, and limestone, which are readily available and do not require harmful chemicals or heavy processing to obtain. This results in a lower carbon footprint and a smaller environmental impact than other materials.

In addition, glass is a durable and long-lasting material, which makes it a sustainable choice for a wide range of products, including trophies and awards. Unlike plastic or metal, glass doesn't degrade or rust over time and can withstand the test of time with proper care.

Glass Awards

Glass is a material that has been used for centuries for its functionality, aesthetic appeal and durability. While it is not a renewable resource like bamboo, glass does have sustainable credentials. As mentioned earlier, Glass is 100% recyclable and can be recycled infinitely without losing its quality.

When it comes to our awards, glass is a popular choice due to its elegant appearance and versatility. We have hand chosen our glass trophies to create a collection with enough variation in shape and size to suit every occasion and price point.

Another sustainability benefit of glass trophies and awards is that they can be repurposed or reused. If a trophy or award is no longer needed, it can be recycled into new glass products or turned into other decorative items. This reduces waste and conserves resources.

Why would you choose sustainable awards?

Sustainable awards are an excellent way for companies to recognize and reward their employees while promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship. In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards sustainability with various movements and famous personalities speaking out and promoting this cause.  While it is just a small collection at the moment, our eco-friendly award range is very popular and they have been designed to reduce waste and promote sustainability. Companies are increasingly choosing these from our range for a few reasons:

- Promote their environmental awareness

By choosing sustainable awards, companies can show their commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability. This sends a positive message to employees, customers, and stakeholders that the company is committed to reducing its environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices.

- Reduce waste and conserve resources

Sustainable awards are typically made from eco-friendly materials such as bamboo, glass and reclaimed wood. By choosing sustainable awards, companies can reduce their environmental footprint and help to protect the planet for future generations.

- Enhance brand image

Companies that choose sustainable awards can enhance their brand image by demonstrating their commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.  This can help to attract environmentally conscious employees and customers, who are increasingly aware of the importance of sustainability and eco-friendliness.

- Customizable and different

Sustainable awards such as our bamboo collection are very different to standard awards right now, and companies are able to choose awards that reflect their values and culture, while also recognizing the achievements of their employees.

- Cost-effective

Sustainable awards like our bamboo awards are cost-effective compared to traditional awards made from materials such as metal or crystal. This makes them an affordable way for companies to recognize and reward their employees while promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility.