It is the first tableware manufacturer to be awarded with this recognition.

Mark Linehan, director of the SRA said: “We’re really impressed by Steelite’s dedication to sustainability, in particular its excellent recycling policy, and UK production in Stoke-on-Trent that uses locally sourced materials.”

“Traditionally in the restaurant world, restaurateurs, chefs and consumers associate sustainability with the food on the plate without thinking about the plate on which it is served. Tableware is a crucial part of the whole dining experience and should be given the same level of consideration.”

Steelite received a Green Apple award in 2010 for its Lamella system, which recovers clay solids from all the factory’s waste water, enabling Steelite to manufacture 15,000 cups and saucers a week.   It also holds a number of accreditations including Investors in People and the ISO 14001: 2004 Environmental Management Standard (EMS) and is a member of the The Green Organisation and Staffordhsire Business and Environmental Network, which aims to help local businesses reduce environmental impact.  

Kevin Oakes, CEO of Steelite International commented: “We’re really proud to be one of the remaining manufacturers at the heart of the potteries and as the largest manufacturer in the UK, we take our environmental policy very seriously. We continually monitor and develop the way we do business to create minimum impact on the community and environment.”