Rochdale Exchange were already making good progress towards minimising their impact on the environment but over the last twelve months they have committed to a fast growing initiative called Bee Aware.

Bee Aware has been developed to help companies to drive the Corporate Social Responsibility agenda. It involves everyone in the organisation and is an excellent vehicle to deliver both internal and external communication messages. The initiative also provides a medium to facilitate the formation of partnerships within the local community.

When the Bee Aware initiative was launched in September 2008, the idea was to promote what the centre had achieved and also to investigate what other systems could be put in place to increase the waste that was being recycled and at the same time look at other environmental initiatives.  It soon became apparent that there were numerous ideas to consider and individuals who ought to be given recognition for their positive attitude and contributions.
The Bee Aware Environmental Awards were established to recognise best practice amongst market traders, shop tenants and staff from within the guest services team. The awards were presented at the Town Hall as part of the ‘Touch of Green' charity Ball.