Awards judge Samir Whitaker, who is biodiversity lead at the category’s sponsor, Ørsted, brings extensive conservation experience to the panel and is keen to highlight Norfolk businesses demonstrating measurable impact, leadership and lasting commitment.
Here, Samir tells us more about what he brings to the judging process.
What first brought you into your current role?
Coming from a family of ornithologists I’ve always had an interest in nature, and began my career as a field biologist working on crocodile conservation in India.
While working in the non-profit conservation sector, the opportunity came to work at Ørsted, and delivering outcomes for both climate and nature was irresistible.
What’s one career achievement you are especially proud of?
Developing our flagship nature restoration project, Wilder Humber, to restore seagrass and native oysters in partnership with the Yorkshire and Lincolnshire Wildlife Trusts.
What excites you about being part of the judging process?
The business sector can, and must, be more sustainable – this is a business imperative, and I’m excited to see new ways of making this sector work for both people and nature.
What qualities or stories would make a business stand out to you?
I’ll be looking out for businesses that show a genuine, ongoing, measurable commitment to improving their environmental performance, alongside a whole company approach.
What is one insight you’ve gained this year that you think other businesses should consider?
Internal consultation and agreement on sustainability targets is incredibly importantly, not just to develop robust targets but for buy-in – the key to deliverability.
Can you give us an example of a standout previous winner, and what made them exemplary?
Shred Station, which won the award in 2024 is a standout example.
It demonstrated how a local business can scale-up not only being sustainable, but actively leveraging its sustainability performance as a differentiator for customers, and making it a great place to work.
What three pieces of advice would you give to businesses considering entering this category?
- Have a clear, measurable plan.
- Demonstrate buy-in from senior management.
- Provide evidence for your claims.
To submit your entries for the EDP Business Awards 2026, please visit the website at edpbusinessawards.co.uk
The deadline to submit entries is Sunday, July 12, 2026.
Award criteria
The winner of the Environmental & Sustainability Award will be able to demonstrate a commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, and will always be learning and sharing its experiences of this process with others to push the move to a green economy.
The judges will be looking for evidence of enhanced environmental performance across a business’ operations and future sustainability plans.
