A Burton-on-Trent tech company that gives used electronic devices a second life has been awarded a top environmental award.
EGO Technology won the Sustainability Award at the UK final of the Federation of Small Businesses' (FSB) Celebrating Small Business Awards 2023.
The company impressed the judging panel with its sustainable solution to the pressing environmental problem of e-waste.
A firm believer in "end of use doesn't mean end of life", the family-run business regenerates and re-uses surplus technology from corporate clients and re-sells to schools and organisations which require essential access to the internet at a low cost.
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Despite the challenges facing small businesses, EGO Technology doubles down green investments with its bespoke tracking software which provides carbon emissions reporting to their clients free-of-charge. This helps to accelerate the journey to net zero.
In 2022 alone, the company processed close to 40,000 devices and offset 1,562 tonnes of CO2 with the recovery and reuse of corporate technology.
This translated into a turnover of £1.27 million - nearly a third more than its forecast of £857,000. EGO Technology also places strong emphasis on supply chain sustainability.
By signing up to its 'One World' pledge, the company ensures its services and firms throughout its supply chain share the same vision to reuse, protecting precious resources while supporting zero landfill, the circular economy and carbon emissions reduction initiatives.
Outside work, the tech recycling provider brings communities together through providing tech support for Ukrainians who are forced to leave their homes due to the Russian invasion and organise e-waste days to encourage the public to recycle unwanted electronic devices.
Despite the cost of doing business and spiralling energy costs, EGO Technology donated more than £10,000 to charities last year.
The FSB Celebrating Small Business Awards 2023 had more than 3,000 entries and showcased the best of small business entrepreneurship in every part of the UK. EGO Technology reached the UK final having won at the regional event earlier this year.
Managing director Ian Austin said: "We're very excited to be recognised by FSB and win the top award in the sustainability category. It's a real testament and brilliant affirmation of our team's commitment to sustainable practices as we strongly believe sustainability is a crucial component of modern business.
"We'll continue to innovate and create services that help fight against the climate crisis."
FSB chairman Martin McTague added: "Well done to EGO Technology which takes on such a huge problem of e-waste and creates something that not only helps the company itself but also others to cut carbon emissions.
"If the UK is to reach its net zero targets, then we must establish a net zero economy and support the role of small firms in combating climate change. I wish EGO Technology every success as they continue to innovate for a greener, cleaner economy."
The award ceremony was held at the National Conference Centre in Solihull and was hosted by TV presenters Clare Balding and JJ Chalmers.
