Nominations are now being accepted for the Governor’s Environmental Excellence Awards to recognize efforts to protect the environment, prevent pollution and save energy.

Applications are due October 15.

The award is open to any Pennsylvania business, governmental agency, educational institution, nonprofit organization, individual or farm that has created or participated in the development of a project that promotes environmental stewardship and economic development in the state.

“By turning environmental challenges into economic growth, Pennsylvania is creating new opportunities for its people and communities, while supporting a whole new generation of environmentally conscious citizens and businesses,” Gov. Rendell said. “This award honors those who have worked so hard to improve the quality of life in Pennsylvania, as well as those who are helping to make clean energy the cornerstone of the commonwealth’s new economy.”

Eligible projects for the 2008 Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence must have been completed between August1, 2006, and July 31. The project categories for consideration include, but are not limited to: environmental technology innovation, pollution prevention and resource efficiency, community revitalization, environmental education and outreach, watershed stewardship, mine safety and clean energy innovations and environmental market development

Projects will be evaluated based on environmental protection, teamwork, public service, environmental education and outreach, pollution prevention, economic impact and innovative technology.

The award program is administered by the Department of Environmental Protection.

“Those honored by this award have helped make Pennsylvania a leader in inspiring innovative solutions to environmental protection challenges and economic development opportunities,” DEP Secretary Kathleen A. McGinty said.

Recipients of the 2008 Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence will be presented with a unique award at a press event at the winner’s location. In addition, the winning projects will be showcased in numerous DEP publications and editorials and highlighted on the department’s website.

Applications are available on DEP’s website.

Past award winners are also available online. Winners prior to 2004 are also available online.

7/20/2007