Europe’s biggest CSR communications awards took place Wednesday in London, with ClayWay Media and Stephen Howard receiving the highest honours at the International Visual Communications Association (IVCA) Clarion Awards 2011.

ClayWay Media won the IVCA Chairman’s Award for their campaign “Carbon Nation” produced for ESEF (what does this stand for?). “The judges felt this was an innovative, informative and impactful campaign that addressed the issues of climate change in an engaging and original manor,” reports Sinden Consulting, which manages the awards.

Stephen Howard won the IVCA Champion Award for his work with Business in the Community (BitC), a business-led charity that encourages sustainability while improving business performance. The award is presented to an individual or individuals who have shown exceptional leadership and achievement in tackling social exclusion, environmental issues and social responsibility.

“As one of the main driving forces behind BitC Stephen has used his wealth of senior management expertise and experience to help define what responsibility looks like in the workplace, showing that business performance can be driven through responsible business practice,” commented Marco Forgione, the IVCA’s chief executive.

There were also 12 other categories for winners and highly commended entries.

The IVCA Clarion Awards, in association with Large Blue and GREEN.TV, are in their 9th year. The awards recognisecommunications for CSR, diversity, sustainability, community development, ethical health and welfare issues in the public, charity, social enterprise and corporate sectors.