"BCE has been a trailblazer in the promotion of the environment as a fundamental part of business management for over a quarter of a century. Through its Awards it continues to highlight excellence, innovation and enthusiasm for the environment within British business.“
Sir Anthony Cleaver - President BCE
Tony Blair remains as Prime Minister with Gordon Brown due to succeed him. George Bush becomes president of US. The 9/11 disaster strikes and war on terrorism is launched leading to the war in Iraq . Poverty in Africa is very much in the headlines as is the environment.
In 2002 the Larsen B ice shelf in Antarctica collapses into the sea and a 2 mile thick pollution cloud over South Asia is reported to cause death to ½ million people a year. In 2003 a heat wave scorches Europe where over 35,000 people die as a result. And in 2005 150 nations agree to launch talks on mandatory post 1012 reductions in green house gases. The G8 Leaders Act – at the G8 summit at Gleneagles, climate change is on of the two main issues addressed by leaders of the 8 largest industrial nations along with invited developing nations.
In 2005 Hurricane Katrina was the costliest and one of the deadliest hurricanes in US history causing catostrophe in New Orleans killing almost 2000 people. In 2004 the deadliest Tsunami in history following an Earthquake in the Indian Ocean killed 300,000 people.
Many regulations are introduced: the Climate Change Levy , Emissions Trading; Environmental regulations - Packaging Regulations, Landfill Tax, Waste from End of Life Electrical and Electronic goods and Vehicles. Congestion Charging is introduced in London; recycling and zero waste become normal business practice.
Although environmental disasters are taking place, business responds with the following headlines 2006-2007:
“Tesco to spend £100 million greening its stores” (27.04.06)
“Branson in $3bn pledge on green fuels” (21.09.06)
“M&S to spend £200m on green strategy” (15.01.07)
“Wal-Mart: A Giant Gone Green” (02.01.07)
“Corporate leaders push Bush, Congress for stronger U.S. laws controlling greenhouse gas emissions” - US Climate Action Program (22.01.07)