DATE: April 28, 2009
CONTACT: Maribel Feliciano or Laurie Thomas, Pollution Prevention Remediation and Air Quality Division, Broward County Environmental Protection and Growth Management Department
PHONE: 954-519-1424, 954-290-3940 or 954-519-1220
Broward County was selected as the top winner in the government category for the Environmental Protection Agency's Change the World, Start with ENERGY STAR® campaign, a national campaign encouraging all Americans to join with millions of others and take small, individual steps that make a difference in the fight against climate change.
Based on all the actions identified in the pledges, Broward County residents saved more than 28.1 million pounds of greenhouse gas emissions, $2,332,335 in electric cost savings, and more than 15.3 million kilowatts of energy.
"This follows the 'power of one' effort, where if one person does just one thing to help the environment, collectively we can make really big changes," said Broward County Commissioner Kristin Jacobs, who serves as chair of the Broward County Climate Change Task Force. "Congratulations to everyone who participated and promoted the Energy Star effort and helped Broward County win this national competition."
In 2008, the Broward County Board of County Commissioners made a commitment to save energy and mitigate climate change impacts by joining the EPA's Change the World, Start with ENERGY STAR® campaign.
The goal of the campaign was to increase awareness of Broward County residents, students, and County employees in relation to the environmental benefits derived from energy efficiency and conservation and the simple things people can do to save energy and help the environment. The County engaged the whole community and forged partnerships with Broward County Public Schools, municipalities, chambers of commerce, ENERGY STAR®, Southeast Air Coalition for Outreach, South Florida Commuter Services, Tri-Rail, NatureScape Broward, and all Broward County local colleges and universities.
The success of the campaign revolved around the community by developing partnerships and conducting pledge drives. The ENERGY STAR® materials were distributed to cities, schools, environmental organizations, and various governmental agencies throughout the County. The campaign was also supported by County officials and it was acknowledged at one of the Board televised meetings.
Click here for more information about the ENERGY STAR® Campaign.
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