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 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.

The Broward County Board of County Commissioners will present trophies to the winners at a special ceremony; followed by a brief reception:

Tuesday, April 29, 2 pm
Broward County Governmental Center
Broward County Commission Chambers, Room 422
115 S. Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale

Treasuring Our Environment

“This county program encourages businesses and government to be mindful of the impact their operations have on the environment and recognizes those who take steps to mitigate negative impacts,” said Broward County Mayor Lois Wexler.

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 Emerald Award winning businesses are:

Pollution Prevention: Hazardous Waste Reduction
Small Business: City of Tamarac Water Treatment Plant
Large Business: Broward Health – Community Health Services & Practice Group, Fort Lauderdale

Recycling
Large Business: JM Family Enterprises, Inc., Deerfield Beach

Innovative Procedures/Process Improvement
Small Business: Cyclone Power Technologies, Inc., Pompano Beach
Large Business: Pizza Fusion, Fort Lauderdale

Green Products/Practices or Programs
Small Business: Unique Cleaners and Tailors of Coral Springs
Large Business: Covenant Village of Florida, Plantation

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: Sue Reed, Plantation and Laurie Schecter, Hollywood
Municipality/Government: Oakland Park City Hall, Oakland Park

Special Achievement
Mary Help of Christians Church, Parkland
City of Pembroke Pines Utilities Department, Pembroke Pines

For more information, including application procedures and guidelines, visit: www.broward.org/environment, or call 954-519-1257.

Tags: Broward, Florida, Green

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