Nominations sought for Governor?s Environmental Excellence Awards

May 12, 2017

Contact: David Madore, Communications Director, david.madore@maine.gov or (207) 287-5842

AUGUSTA ? The Department of Environmental Protection and Governor Paul R. LePage encourages entities that have gone above and beyond required regulations by implementing innovative practices that have meaningful environmental and economic benefits to apply for the State?s environmental excellence awards. This is an opportunity for businesses, nonprofits and public entities to be recognized for their extraordinary work to improve and protect Maine?s natural resources.

"Our job creators grow the economy and help steward Maine?s natural resources," said Governor LePage. "The Governor?s Awards on Environmental Excellence recognize leaders who take innovative approaches to protect our natural resources and strengthen our economy. My Administration was proud to have re-launched these awards to support the entities that not only move our economy forward, but also ensure that our natural resources are here for the enjoyment of future generations."

Nominations are now open for the Governor?s Awards for Environmental Excellence, which will honor entities that go beyond standard techniques or regulatory requirements to creatively meet environmental challenges or opportunities. The five award categories include: small, medium and large businesses; local, state, federal or tribal entities; and nonprofit organizations.

"Our natural resources are the State of Maine?s greatest asset and I believe the state?s economy can improve while maintaining our environment," said Commissioner Mercer. "The Environmental Excellence Awards celebrate and encourage those Maine businesses, non-profits and public entities who have successfully balanced both."

Award applicants will be asked to explain how their recent project or program was innovative, collaborative and resulted in measurable and meaningful environmental and economic benefits. Completed Application forms are due to the department by Friday, June 23, 2017.

For more information about the Maine Department of Environmental Protection?s Governor?s Awards for Environmental Excellence or to download an application, visit http://www.maine.gov/dep/govaward or contact David Madore, Director of Communications, Education and Outreach, at 287-5842 or david.madore@maine.gov.