A local auto repair shop that "demonstrates a hugely proactive approach towards sustainability in a business that we wouldn't normally or naturally associate with 'green' enterprises or standards" has been named winner of the second annual Squamish Green Business Award.
Newport Auto Inc. on Saturday (April 16) was named the recipient of the award, presented by the Squamish Chamber of Commerce and Squamish Climate Action Network (CAN) at the annual Re-Use-It Fair outside the Adventure Centre.
The panel of judges spent several hours reviewing 11 applications before selecting Newport Auto.
"The panel was particularly impressed with the degree of commitment, the creativity, the thoroughness and the quality of changes implemented in Newport Auto Inc.'s operations as this business looks constantly for ways to reduce their impact on the environment," Chamber and Squamish CAN officials said in a statement.
Triack Resources, which recycles wood waste, was named winner of the inaugural Squamish Green Business Award in 2010.
The Squamish Climate Action Network's Ana Santos, who helped organize the Re-Use-It Fair, called the event a "roaring success."
"An amazing amount of stuff changed hands and owners," she said. "People's faces were beaming as they looked through the piles and found wonderful treasures. The atmosphere was festive and educational, and the community's enthusiasm and willingness to take positive steps towards waste reduction was visible and palpable through the day."