DATE: March 18, 2009
CONTACT: Kay Sommers, Broward County Environmental Protection
and Growth Management Department
PHONE: 954-519-1257
The Broward County Environmental Protection and Growth Management Department will recognize several local businesses for their outstanding environmentally-responsible business practices. Each business will receive an Emerald Award for their exceptional efforts in protecting the environment.
The Broward County Board of County Commissioners will present trophies to the winners at a special ceremony followed by a brief reception at 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 28, in the Broward County Commission Chambers, Room 422, of the Governmental Center, 115 S. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale.
The program recognizes businesses for their voluntary efforts in four areas: waste reduction, recycling, improved operating practices, and other "green" strategies that reduce pollution and waste. Both large and small businesses are eligible. One business is also honored with the title "Environmental Business of the Year," which will be announced at the ceremony.
Receiving an Emerald Award can help companies boost business. Research has shown that a company's environmental reputation will rival quality and brand name as criteria used by customers. Environmentally-friendly business practices can help companies attract new customers, encourage repeat customers and boost employee morale.
This year's winning businesses are:
Pollution Prevention: Hazardous Waste Reduction:
• Watson Pharmaceuticals, Inc. U.S. Generics Division (large business)
Recycling:
• Florida Coca - Cola Bottling Company - Hollywood (large business)
• Gardner Foreign Auto Parts (small business)
Innovative Procedures/Process Improvement:
• Green Children's House Early Learning Center (small business)
• JM Lexus (large business)
Green Products/Practices or Programs:
• Chris & Lee Mobile Auto Care (small business)
• Valley Forge Fabrics, Inc. (large business)
The Emerald Awards program also includes a component to reward homeowners, governments and other groups that have incorporated NatureScape Broward techniques into their landscaping. NatureScape yards are designed to conserve water by using native plants in place of lawn; provide food, water and shelter for wildlife; use integrated pest control practices; reduce storm-water contaminated by pesticides and fertilizers; and recycle yard waste into mulch and compost.
NatureScape Emerald Award Winners:
• Homeowners
Walter and Ramona Johnston - Coconut Creek
Ron Phenix and Danny Meyers - Margate
• Municipality/Government:
School Board of Broward County
• Special Achievement:
Art Constintino - Fort Lauderdale
Samantha Seidman and Jack Levy - Hollywood
More information, including application procedures and guidelines, is available online at www.broward.org/environment, or call 954-519-1257.
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