Franchise business GreenBizCheck, a global technology-based environmental certification program for business, has been listed number 31 in AustraliaÕs Top 50 start-ups at the 2012 StartupSmart Awards.

The 2012 StartupSmart Awards, sponsored by Pitcher Partners, celebrate AustraliaÕs most innovative and fastest growing start-ups. This year, the awards featured more than 160 entrants and shined a spotlight on the best ideas and new businesses in the country.

“Our concept helps companies to quickly implement sustainable environmental practices which rapidly increase profits, attract new business, conserve energy, water, resources and minimise waste,” said co-founder Tony Hall.

Companies are provided with a 260-point online assessment, with immediate reporting and action planning. Points are awarded for compliance and implementation of each element of the assessment. Companies are then given guidance on the necessary steps to achieve certification.

“We also help them market their credentials to win new business and meet supplier and customer standards,” Hall said.

“GreenBizCheck is all about helping businesses become more sustainable while also creating significant cost-saving opportunities,” Hall says. “We practice what we preach and are gold-certified ourselves. We have also undergone ISO14001 certification and been audited by the world’s largest audit and certification body, Bureau Veritas.”