Hear the report from the Green Queen

 

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Guest column by Diane Brossart, president of Valley Forward Association.

You’d think all this hype about living and working in more sustainable ways was a new thing that suddenly captured the masses. However, the green movement is anything but new. It’s just a lot more popular today than it has been historically.

In fact, the notion of leveraging superior environmental quality for sustainable economic prosperity has been recognized in the Valley for three decades. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Environmental Excellence Awards program, the state’s oldest and largest competition of its kind. Throughout the years, these awards have become powerful vehicles in advocating for the preservation of natural resources – air, water, open space and our unique desert landscape.

A look back and a glimpse ahead in the evolution of these coveted awards is enlightening and reveals that environmental quality is indeed timeless. Projects from the early years remain relevant and important, such as Rio Salado, Desert Botanical Garden and Phoenix Solid Waste Management Facility & Recycling Center.

Environmental excellence takes many forms in our region. From green buildings, magnificent desert vistas and livable communities to innovative public art, sustainable technologies and environmental education, we are making a difference.

More than 150 entries were received this year, setting a new submittal record for the program and showcasing many shades of green in a myriad of new development and sustainable projects around the Valley. The breath and depth of entries spotlights the high priority sustainable design and development has in our growing metropolitan community. Were it not for this program, significant contributions to environmental quality might otherwise go unrecognized.

Known as the Academy Awards of the local environmental community, this year’s winners will be recognized on Saturday, Oct. 2, at The Phoenician Resort in a gala expected to attract upwards of 700 business and civic leaders. Join us in a culmination of three decades of environmental stewardship as we reflect on years past and look ahead as our progressive metropolis grows and develops.

Make no mistake, there’s a lot to feel good about in the Valley despite the challenging economic times we’re facing. As varied as the hundreds of award winners have been over the history of Valley Forward’s program, they all have one thing in common – each has had an undeniable impact in the community. And that’s what the Environmental Excellence Awards program is all about.