Ten private and public sector organisations were recognised for their commitment to sustainable business practices at an awards ceremony last night.

A new accreditation scheme for green businesses, the Singapore Sustainability Label, was also officially unveiled at the event held at the Grand Copthorne Waterfront.

Winners of the Singapore Sustainability Awards were lauded for their pro-environment operations and performance management systems, corporate social responsibility, innovation, and green technology implementation.

The awards are given out annually by the Singapore Business Federation (SBF) and fall into two categories: the Sustainable Business Awards (SBA) and the Green Technology Awards (GTA).

Elmich, an engineering solutions company, received the "top honour" title under the GTA Small and Medium Enterprise category.

The company has contributed to major projects around the world, achieving many green building certifications and architectural awards, the SBF said in a statement.

Three others also won awards under the GTA category: Gashub Technology, Neutrinos Engineering and Canon Singapore.

Six winners emerged in the SBA category: Ardentec Singapore, Buckman Laboratories, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, Marina Bay Sands, Kimberly-Clark Singapore and Wilmar International.

Mr Masagos Zulkifli, Minister for the Environment and Water Resources, launched the Singapore Sustainability Label at the event.

The accreditation scheme recognises companies which may not meet the full requirements for the awards, "but possess a strong potential to improve", said Mr Masagos.

"The label will also benefit companies that are looking to venture into international markets with strict regulatory standards, as it will enable companies to differentiate themselves and stand out in the region," he added.