MEET THE JUDGES
JUDGE’S NAME Jim Watson
The King’s Awards highlight those businesses that are leading the way - and also helps to put pressure on those that are lagging behind
CATEGORY Sustainable Development
AREA OF INTEREST Energy
Professor of Energy Policy and Director of the Institute of Sustainable Resources at University College London (UCL), Jim Watson conducts research which focuses on climate change, energy and innovation policies. Professor Watson has been a Specialist Adviser with four UK Parliamentary committees, and is frequently called upon to provide insight to UK government departments and other organisations. In addition to being a judge for the King’s Awards, Professor Watson is chair of the technical advisory group to the World Bank’s Energy Sector Management Assistance Programme (ESMAP). He is also an executive committee member of the Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement.
company that offers free repairs for life. WHAT’S YOUR TOP TIP FOR A COMPANY THAT IS THINKING OF APPLYING FOR A KING’S AWARD? Think about your whole strategy, including your products or services and your operations. Provide as much evidence as possible about your sustainability across these two areas, including data about significant improvements you have achieved. DESCRIBE THE BENEFITS OF BEING A KING’S AWARDS WINNER, AS YOU SEE IT Winning a King’s Award represents an independent validation of the sustainability of a business and its products. Whilst many businesses and organisations are keen to emphasise their environmental and social credentials, they have to demonstrate significant progress and leadership to be chosen as a winner.
WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE TO BE A JUDGE FOR THE KING’S AWARDS? I got involved because the Awards don’t just focus on financial success and innovation, though both of these are important. They also highlight companies and organisations that are making a real difference to environmental and social sustainability. WHY DO THE KING’S AWARDS MATTER TO BUSINESS? Businesses have a very important role to play in helping to tackle pressing global sustainability challenges, from climate change to biodiversity loss. The King’s Awards highlight those businesses that are leading the way - and also helps to put pressure on those that are lagging behind. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT BEING A KING’S AWARDS JUDGE? Learning about companies and organisations I haven’t come across before. Every year, the judges are inspired by real pioneers that are showing how to run a successful organisation that combines financial, environmental and social sustainability. WHAT SPARKS YOUR INTEREST ACROSS KING’S AWARDS APPLICANTS THIS YEAR? As usual, there was a very diverse range of applicants. The winners I’d highlight from this year include office furniture companies that use more sustainable materials and offer recycling services, and a sunglasses
King’s Awards Magazine 2024
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