“Businesses that apply environmentally friendly technologies, use less natural resources and energy, and minimize the generation of waste and emissions into the environment actually benefit because they save on the rising costs of waste treatment and the high prices of primary natural resources,” said Deputy Minister of Environment and Water Reneta Koleva yesterday evening at the 2022 annual award ceremony for responsible businesses at the Bulgarian Forum of Business Leaders (BFBL).

Reneta Koleva highlighted that in fulfillment of the government strategic goal to improve the business environment and develop towards a green economy, the Ministry of Environment and Water is directing its efforts towards the integration of environmental policies in all sectors of the economy. “I am happy to say that many companies and industry associations are finding their place and are making efforts to implement this policy. I welcome your efforts, because the desired change towards a green economy can only happen in cooperation with the business,” said the deputy minister. She presented the awards in the “Investor in the environment” category, whereby first place was awarded to the “Clean Struma” project by “Bio Bulgaria/ Harmonica”. The projects of three companies were ranked second. “Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company Bulgaria” received an award for “My Green City”. “Devin” was awarded for the project “Biodiversity - a strategic goal for survival and a sustainable future”, and “TELUS International Bulgaria” - for the project “Beekeeper for a day”. Third prize was won by “Foodobox 2021” for the project of a mobile application that allows to book a box of food from certain commercial establishments, such as restaurants, patisseries, cafes, bakeries, supermarkets, and others. The food in the box is leftover but perfectly edible. The price of one box is at least 40% less than the regular price of the food in the box.

President Rumen Radev presented the awards in the “Investor in Society” category. Guests at the ceremony were the Minister of Education and Science Sasho Penov, deputy ministers, and business representatives from various sectors. A total of 134 corporate initiatives of 86 companies competed in the 20th edition of the national competition for corporate social responsibility, sustainable development, and diversity.