FIRMS which have risen to the challenge to reduce the mountain of waste going into landfill sites are being commnended at a ceremony today.

Forty-seven businesses and one charity are being recognised for their efforts to reduce, re-use and recycle more rubbish since the Tidy Business Standard scheme was launched last autumn.

Run by ENCAMS, formerly Keep Britain Tidy, the campaign encourages companies to consider how they manage their waste and make improvements. It is supported locally by City of York Council and York Business Pride.

St Leonard's Hospice is among the gold award winners along with Land Securities, B-Select sandwich deli bar, HPH Chartered Accountants, and Norwich Union at both Yorkshire House and Roman House.

All the other participating businesses have achieved bronze level with several also securing silver.

Councillor Andrew Waller, pictured, executive member for environment and sustainability, will be presenting certificates at the ceremony at the Mansion House with Andrew Osbourne, of ENCAMS.

Coun Waller said: "It is about demonstrating that we can all work together to improve the appearance of the city by making it easier for peope to dispose of rubbish properly and save businesses money in recycling.

"We are very pleased that St Leonard's Hospice is among the gold winners.

"That demonstrates you don't have to be a big high street retailer in a chain to win. It is within everyone's grasp to win the awards and reap the rewards."

Measures that firms have taken include keeping the area in front of their shops clean, such as by providing cigarette bins, and segregating waste for recycling.

Two-thirds of those taking part were small, independent companies, alongside national business premises and regional companies.

The majority are based in the city centre, but there are ten from Acomb and some from outlying areas.

Angus Young, street environment officer, said: "We are delighted so many businesses have already come on board and achieved so much in a relatively short space of time.

"By working in partnership with local businesses like this, we hope to achieve cleaner local environments and reduce the amount of waste that is needlessly being sent to landfill sites."

Bronze awards recognise efforts businesses go to for waste storage and disposal.

To reach the silver stage, they also need to be committed to reducing, re-using and recycling waste.

For the gold award, businesses need to show that their surroundings are clean, support efforts to enhance the local area and, where possible, make provision for smoking-related litter.

For details on the Tidy Business Standard scheme, phone Mr Young on 01904 552404 or email angus.young@york.co.uk.

Updated: 10:47 Thursday, July 21, 2005