JUDGEMENT day approaches for the shortlisted entrants in the 2007 Sustainable Business Awards for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

Each applicant has had the chance to make their case and demonstrate their sustainability credentials through a rigorous assessment process and now awaits the judges' verdict.

Judges have been drawn from a range of organisations with experience of sustainable business and the awards process, including the Environment Agency, Chambers of Commerce, and past Awards Winners.

John Rees-Evans, head of economic development at Hampshire County Council, said: "Having judged the competition in previous years, I am intrigued and very impressed by this year's entries, and can confidently state that each of the 22 finalists is there entirely on merit - it is without doubt the strongest field yet.

"It is always encouraging to see local companies setting such inspiring examples of business sustainability. Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are extremely strong in this area, and the local economy as well as the community can only benefit as a result."

Judges will award points in the key areas of environmental, social and economic sustainability, looking at the business' achievements, the information businesses have provided and their commitment to being more sustainable.

The judging panel will meet at on April 30 to make their final selection in each of the five categories, and who will emerge triumphant as the 2007 Sustainable Business of the Year. The decision will be kept strictly confidential until the winners are announced at the gala dinner on Wednesday May 23 at the Botley Park Hotel, where weatherman Michael Fish, pictured, will present the awards.

Tickets for the evening, to include a drinks reception and three course meal, are available from the Sustainable Business Partnership. Call 01962 845591 for more information.