Leading NI businesses showcase green credentials at environmental Top 40 Forum

Encirc reaffirmed its position as one of Northern Ireland’s most environmentally conscious businesses when it recently participated in Business in the Community’s Northern Ireland Environmental Benchmarking Survey (NIEBS) Top 40 Forum.

Held at Belfast Harbour Commissioners, the event brought together some of the region’s leading organisations to discuss environmental performance and to celebrate top-performing businesses in last year’s benchmarking survey.

Encirc has achieved platinum level in the NIEBS every year since 2019 and was represented at the event by Katrina Conlin and Jennifer Elliott.

The forum was preceded by the official launch of the 2025 Northern Ireland Environmental Benchmarking Survey, a respected initiative that encourages organisations across the region to measure, report, and improve their environmental impacts.

Andrew Muir MLA, Minister for the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) was on hand to launch the 27th annual survey for organisations in Northern Ireland to assess their sustainability credentials.

He said: “It’s crucial that everyone plays their part in delivering a net zero, nature positive future. That’s why my department is supporting the Northern Ireland Environmental Benchmarking Survey, to positively influence businesses to identify their environmental impacts and showcase those who excel. I would encourage organisations of all sizes and from all sectors to take part in 2025.”

Katrina, Customer Excellence Supervisor and a key member of Encirc’s thriving biodiversity committee led a round table discussion and participated in the panel debate at the Top 40 Forum.

Reflecting on the experience, Katrina said: “It was a great event with many of the top performing businesses from last year’s Survey in attendance.

“I was delighted to lead a round table discussion about the challenges and successes organisations are experiencing driving environmental change and to join a panel discussion on Encirc’s own environmental journey and sustainability initiatives.”

Katrina highlighted key milestones in Encirc’s sustainability pathway, including its progress toward decarbonising its operations, circular economy initiatives, and innovative approaches to reducing energy and water usage.

The event served as a valuable platform for open dialogue among Northern Ireland’s most environmentally conscious businesses. Attendees shared insights on best practices, common challenges, and emerging opportunities in the push for a more sustainable future.

“The Top 40 Forum was both informative and enjoyable,” Katrina added. “I particularly enjoyed the opportunity to network with peers, share best practices, and explore opportunities for collaboration.”