More than 150 decision-makers from business, science, and politics gathered in Gstaad in February for the Impact Circle Event, an initiative by Impact Gstaad aimed at advancing sustainability in enterprise. The highlight of the event was the presentation of the Green Business Award, chaired by former Swiss Federal Councillor Doris Leuthard.

Held at the Kirchgemeindehaus under the theme “Sustainable Entrepreneurship – Catalyst for Change”, the conference underscored how business innovation can generate meaningful environmental and social impact.
Among the keynote speakers were sustainability thought leaders Marga Hoek and André Hoffmann. The latter, a member of the Impact Advisory Board, introduced his new book The New Nature of Business: The Path to Prosperity and Sustainability, offering a blueprint for aligning ecological responsibility with economic success.

Positioning Gstaad as a hub for sustainable innovation
“The Impact Circle Event perfectly captured what Impact Gstaad is all about—bringing visionary people together to drive real change,” said Manuel Linder, President of the Impact Gstaad Association. “The calibre of the speakers and the quality of the discussions prove that Gstaad is fast becoming a key meeting point for sustainable innovation and impact investing. We’re seeing a shift: from reporting on sustainability to actively implementing it.”

Honouring Green Innovation: Green Business Award 2025
Capping off the event, the Green Business Award recognised outstanding achievements in ecological innovation. This year’s winner, New Roots, impressed the jury with its combination of Swiss artisanal craftsmanship and plant-based innovation. The company’s vegan cheese alternatives result in up to 60% lower CO₂ emissions compared to traditional dairy products.

“New Roots delivers measurable ecological impact by bridging innovation and tradition, while also achieving remarkable commercial success,” noted jury chair Doris Leuthard.

Finalists also included Algrano, which is transforming the coffee trade through a transparent marketplace model, and Selfrag, a technology company recovering valuable metals and minerals from industrial waste.

Now in its sixth year, the Green Business Award has become Switzerland’s leading distinction for companies that successfully introduce ecological innovation to the market.

For more information, visit: greenbusinessaward.ch

Based on AvS | AMO | edited by JW