Businesses are being encouraged to enter the 2011 Bay of Plenty Sustainable Business Network awards before the close off date at the end of the month.

Judge Gavin Cherrie says this year's entries are proving to be exceptional.

'This is my seventh year of judging various business awards. I have never seen so many entries of such a high standard.”

Nominations have been received of all categories including large and small business, emerging and trailblazers and the NZTE productivity award, which is judged separately.

Gavin says sustainability is and will continue to be, one of the biggest challenges and opportunities confronting businesses of our time.

'Making a significant contribution to New Zealand's prosperity, businesses with a strong affiliation to sustainable development are recognised at the SBN Awards as a way to celebrate their successes but also support the uptake of sustainable practices by others.

'Those attending the awards on October 6 will have the opportunity to learn about what it takes to be a successful sustainable business and will be treated to a night of inspiration.”

The winners announced at the 2011 NZI National Sustainable Business Network Awards in October, with the event being held at the Classic Flyers in Mount Manuganui.