This week we are profiling the shortlisted companies and individuals in this year's in-Cumbria Business Awards, in association with NRL.

The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony at Dalston Hall, Carlisle, on November 29, hosted by broadcaster Zara Janjua.

Best Green Business

Harriet Smithson, Cumberland Flower Farm

Harriet’s ethos, “Grown not flown,” reflects her commitment to sustainable flower growing at the Cumberland Flower Farm, near Workington.

She cultivates beautiful blooms for celebrations and retail use, sourcing only from her own land or partnering with other British suppliers to minimise flower miles and support a network of sustainable growers.

Harriet's practices are environmentally conscious, her packaging is plastic-free and compostable, her farm is off-grid and she employs slow, patient growing and production methods.

She recycles water on-site, uses ancient natural fertilisation techniques and prioritises reuse and recycling. Harriet's flowers are grown using regenerative agricultural techniques without chemical inputs, allowing people to choose flowers that do not contribute to the climate crisis.

Despite the challenges of a difficult commercial environment, Harriet has worked hard to grow her business from a small allotment to a hidden oasis of stunning flowers. Her dedication to sustainable farming is evident in her methods and her results, which showcase her considerable talent and commitment to creating a positive environmental impact.

Muncaster Castle

Muncaster Castle has achieved a significant milestone by making its electricity supply net zero carbon.

Last year solar panels at the castle generated 52.8 MWh, exceeding the 49.5 MWh consumed by the castle, which includes all lighting, appliances, and heating. This achievement is remarkable for a historic property, which uses a Ground Source Heat Pump (GSHP) that replaces the former gas boilers, further reducing carbon emissions.

The recent installation of batteries allows for optimal use of solar power and enables power to be drawn from the grid when electricity is cheaper and greener, targeting periods when solar and wind energy are abundant. Alongside these technological advancements, the estate is focusing on decarbonising its tourism activities, promoting biodiversity and sustainable food production, with traditional Shorthorn cattle joining the environmental efforts.

Muncaster attracted over 60,000 tourists last year, educating visitors on green practices. The estate collaborates with Oxford and Lancaster Universities on environmental research and is keen to develop further partnerships with local businesses to promote sustainability.

Muncaster is enhancing its role in the local economy by offering corporate meeting spaces, activities and away days, fostering greater integration between businesses in the region. As a family-owned company, it remains committed to improving its impact and serving as a valuable asset to the local community.

Shed One Distillery

Shed One Distillery, founded by Andy and Zoe Arnold-Bennett in 2016, integrates environmental responsibility into every aspect of its operations.

Originally established in a garden shed, the distillery moved to a renovated calf shed in 2019, where it produces award-winning gin, botanical spirits, liqueurs, and gin jelly marmalade. The business has been recognised for its commitment to sustainability, holding The Global Gin Guide's Environmental Sustainability Award for four consecutive years and achieving a Silver rating from Green Tourism.

Shed One has implemented numerous green initiatives, such as a closed-loop cooling system that saves hundreds of thousands of litres of water annually and captures water from mini stills for plant irrigation. Their 50cl and 70cl bottles are made from 100 per cent recycled glass, with recyclable stoppers and paper labels, significantly reducing waste.

The distillery has also reduced plastic use, reusing and recycling materials wherever possible. It uses a cardboard shredder to produce eco-friendly packaging, which has inspired other businesses and engaged customers.

The distillery has doubled its production capacity without increasing energy consumption, reduced its carbon footprint by sourcing locally grown botanicals, and actively supports community and charity initiatives.

The ‘Marmalade Fund’, established from sales of their gin jelly marmalade, has raised over £15,000 for local charities. Shed One collaborates with organisations like Cumbria Action for Sustainability to raise awareness of green practices, particularly among small businesses. The distillery's efforts emphasise the importance of thriving local communities and sustainable business practices