This article first appeared in the JNA January/February 2025 issue.

Sustainability is once again the focus of this year’s Jewellery World Awards (JWA) presented by Informa Markets Jewellery.

Highlighting environmental stewardship, community empowerment, equity promotion and technological innovation, the Sustainability Awards 2025 by JWA aims to recognise sustainability champions in the fine jewellery, gemstone and related industries, irrespective of a company’s size, area of specialisation or geographical location.

“Previously known as the JNA Awards, JWA was launched by Informa Markets Jewellery in 2012 to celebrate pioneers, change-makers and exceptional business leaders who purposefully drive positive change in the world of jewellery and beyond. Since 2024, the programme has shifted its attention to highlighting companies leading the charge towards a greener and more socially responsible industry, reflecting the growing emphasis on a culture centred around sustainability,” said Celine Lau, director of Jewellery Fairs at Informa Markets Jewellery. “The 2025 edition continues this tradition by honouring enterprises that are boldly tackling the challenge of creating a more sustainable world.”

Refined programme

JWA has been at the forefront of promoting sustainable business practices, featuring categories such as Sustainability Initiative and Industry Innovation, along with their evolving iterations. The choice to create a comprehensive Awards programme solely focused on sustainability highlights the pressing global importance of this matter.

The Sustainability Awards by JWA 2025 features five categories highlighting sustainable achievements in 2024, all centred around the 3Ps: People, Planet and Prosperity.

These initiatives include efforts towards achieving net-zero emissions; embracing eco-friendly manufacturing practices and responsible sourcing of materials; using advanced technologies that prioritise environmental sustainability and circularity; advocating for diversity, equity and inclusion; and actively engaging in community empowerment and collaboration.

Building on the foundation set by the previous year’s edition, the award categories for 2025 have been refined in response to industry feedback and to more accurately mirror current realities. Noteworthy changes include the division of the Environmental Stewardship Award into two sub-categories, “Life Below Water” and “Life on Land,” recognising accomplishments in these distinct yet interlinked domains. Entrants may choose to enter one or both sub-categories based on the primary emphasis of their submissions.

The Sustainability Awards by JWA 2025 is open to private or commercial organisations. To qualify for the Awards, applicants must provide compelling evidence demonstrating the effective implementation and tangible outcomes of their sustainability initiatives in 2024.

Eligible companies can enter a maximum of two award categories, with each entry to be submitted separately. Participation is completely free. Entries must be submitted from January 6, 2025 to April 7, 2025 using the online nomination forms available on the JWA website.

An independent jury will assess the nominations based on pre-established criteria. The initial round of judging is scheduled for April. Finalists will be announced during the media gathering at Jewellery & Gem ASIA Hong Kong on June 19, 2025. The winners will be revealed in July 2025 and presented with their awards at the Fair Reception of Jewellery & Gem WORLD Hong Kong (JGW) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre on September 17, 2025.

Furthermore, the award recipients and finalists will be invited to participate in the Sustainability Heroes Panel Series during JGW 2025.

 

Categories of the Sustainability Awards 2025 by JWA

Environmental Stewardship Award: Life Below Water & Life On Land
This award is presented to enterprises that prioritise nature conservation, regeneration and climate change mitigation. This recognition is divided into two sub-categories:

Sub-Category 1: Life Below Water 
Acknowledging initiatives that concentrate on the conservation and sustainable management of marine ecosystems, aiming to safeguard underwater biodiversity and habitats.

Sub-Category 2: Life On Land 
Celebrating endeavours committed to the preservation and sustainable utilisation of terrestrial environments, fostering biodiversity and ecosystem well-being on land.

Community Catalyst Award
This award recognises businesses that transcend traditional donation-based project support, which typically involves monetary or material contributions from start to finish. These businesses drive meaningful grassroots change by collaborating with communities to customise programmes to local contexts. Through this participatory approach, the community directly benefits in various areas like employment, volunteerism, cultural heritage preservation, education and environmental sustainability, among others.

Tech For A Sustainable Future Award
This accolade shines the spotlight on the development and implementation of innovative processes, technologies and practices that prioritise both environmental sustainability and circularity. This encompasses initiatives focused on resource management, waste reduction, energy efficiency and emission reduction, all while increasing productivity.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award
This award pays tribute to efforts that foster a welcoming and inclusive environment, promoting equitable opportunities for all individuals and empowering marginalised groups to thrive. Successful entries must demonstrate a commitment to social justice, fairness and the celebration of diverse perspectives, contributing to a more equitable and inclusive society.

Sustainability Leadership Award
This award honours companies that embody the gold standard in championing a greener, more equitable future. The recipient of this accolade would have shown exceptional commitment to advancing sustainability practices, promoting social responsibility and fostering ethical governance within and beyond their spheres of influence.

For more information, please visit https://www.jwawards.com/about-the-award/