Zurich has a longstanding commitment, both locally and globally, to reducing waste, lowering carbon emissions and improving energy efficiency.

It’s why Zurich in the Isle of Man has chosen to sponsor the Environmental or Sustainable Initiative of the Year category at November’s Media Isle of Man Awards for Excellence.

The well-known insurer and employee benefits provider has previously won the Sustainable Business of the Year Award in 2023, and two UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man awards, and has shown leadership in the transition to renewable energy with a solar power array now in its fifth year of operation.

So, Zurich is well placed to celebrate environmental progress across the island.

Chief executive of Zurich International Life, Robert Hartnett, said: ‘Zurich Insurance Group became the first insurer globally to join the UN’s 1.5°C Business Ambition seven years ago.

‘Since then, we’ve made significant progress towards our net-zero goals by introducing practical and measurable changes throughout our operations worldwide.

‘Zurich has been part of the Isle of Man community for more than 40 years, and the enthusiasm of our local team has played an important role in supporting both the island’s sustainability ambitions and Zurich Insurance Group’s wider environmental targets.’

Zurich has already delivered several significant sustainability initiatives.

A solar array at its Isle of Man Business Park office, which became operational in 2022, provides around half of the company’s electricity needs in the island. Battery storage was installed this year so when the array generates more power than can be used immediately, that excess energy is stored for future use.

It’s another step towards Zurich Isle of Man’s goal to be self-sufficient for all of its electricity needs by 2030.

The business has also reduced its use of water, plastic, and paper, while increasing the proportion of waste it recycles. Its Sustainability at Home Scheme provides interest-free loans to Isle of Man employees, helping them make energy-efficiency improvements to their homes.

While sustainability initiatives can reduce carbon footprint, business costs, and support Environmental, Social and Governance and net-zero targets, Zurich has also experienced wider benefits.

‘In 2025 we invested in smart technology at Zurich House to improve energy efficiency while also supporting employee wellbeing’, Robert added.

‘The system provides accurate data that enables us to monitor and manage temperature, humidity and air quality throughout the building.

It also works alongside our existing light-harvesting system, which creates the best possible balance between natural and artificial light. Together, these technologies help us reduce energy use while providing a healthier and more comfortable working environment for our employees.’

By sponsoring the Environmental or Sustainable Initiative of the Year Award, Zurich wants to make sure that businesses and organisations with innovative ideas that support a more sustainable future are encouraged.

‘This award is an opportunity to celebrate and take inspiration from organisations that use innovative ideas to benefit the environment and communities’, Robert said.

‘We look forward to recognising their achievements and celebrating the winners and nominees at the awards evening.’

This year’s awards take place on Thursday, November 19 at the Villa Marina.

Find out more about Zurich’s commitment to sustainability online at zurich.com/sustainability