Awards set up to recognise corporate attempts to promote their products in a sustainable manner put mobile phone firm O2 at the top of the tree.

These are the UK’s first environmental awards to recognise marketing and advertising as having an important role to play in creating a sustainable society.

The Green Awards, launched this year, gave the top spot to the company for its decision to allow customers who did not need a new charger to opt out, saving resources and streamlining packaging. It was also commended for offering customers a simple way to recycle their old phones and to have a tree planted in their name.

“This wasn’t tokenism, or a worthy gesture with no real substance,” said organisers.

“It encouraged change not only from O2’s customers, but also from their competitors.”

Runners up for the grand prix were Good Energy, Green Green Tea and Marks & Spencer.

Full details of the awards and winners across the categories can be found on the Green Awards website.

Sam Bond

Action inspires action. Stay ahead of the curve with sustainability and energy newsletters from edie

Subscribe