The 2012 Tour de Suisse VeloVert Partner and Stage Host: recognition for a special contribution, 06. August 2012

The organisers of the Tour de Suisse have presented awards to a sponsor and a stage host for their special contribution to sustainability as part of the 76th Tour de Suisse. The title of 2012 VeloVert Partner was successfully secured by KYOCERA, while Arosa was awarded the title of 2012 VeloVert Stage Host.

To recognise the highly influential role of sponsors and stage hosts in the sustainable development of the Tour de Suisse, organisers launched a competition for sponsors and stage hosts as part of their VeloVert sustainability concept. The competition was intended as an incentive for developing and implementing a sustainability concept and Tour de Suisse organisers were hoping to set new standards for the future as well as achieving active participation and progress through cooperation. And the result was undoubtedly positive. However, two players made a special effort and on 24 July they were rewarded with the VeloVert Award for their contribution.

KYOCERA, 2012 VeloVert Partner

The specialist printer supplier has demonstrated its commitment to guaranteed waste reduction with its KYOCERA ECOSYS technology which needs fewer consumables than conventional printers. The Tour de Suisse partner has also introduced a number of green initiatives including a shift from the use of colour paper to 100% recycling paper, using new economical vehicles and aerodynamic advertising vehicles, promoting the reduction of transport miles by selecting a location for onward delivery or for team change in the immediate vicinity of its headquarters and, finally, distributing sustainable, unpackaged, Swiss-produced promotional gifts.

Arosa, 2012 VeloVert Stage Host

The stage host undertook a number of travel initiatives including actively advertising rail connections, providing a free bus service for TdS visitors and using electric vehicles for its own transport. With regard to reducing and properly disposing of waste, Arosa implemented a number of initiatives, including using recycled paper, dispensing with drinks supplied in cans, supplying the catering outlets with additional PET and glass banks and carefully planning the recycling and separation of the remaining refuse. Other measures included the use and efficient re-deployment of existing infrastructure, the use of renewable energy and water-saving sanitary facilities and various efforts to involve the local population.

For their special efforts, the winners of this year’s competition have received 10 VIP tickets for a place at the finishing line of their choice at the 2013 Tour de Suisse.

The Tour de Suisse organisers would like to thank all 2012 Tour de Suisse sponsors and stage hosts for their contribution and urge them rise to the challenge again in future and improve their personal best!