Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

Contacts: Fran Kurk, 651-215-0242 Laurie Gustafson, 651-215-0230 Saint Paul, Minn. -- The state of Minnesota is seeking applications/nominations for the 16th annual Governor's Award for Excellence in Waste and Pollution Prevention. Businesses, private institutions, and nonprofit organizations with exemplary waste reduction and pollution prevention projects or programs are encouraged to apply. Every year, the Governor's Award recognizes superior environmental achievement for projects or programs that reduce waste and pollution at the source, conserve natural resources, protect ground water, save energy and practice sustainability. Prevention practices often result in saving organizations money along with helping to protect our environment. Applications will be evaluated based on:
· benefits to the environment;
· economic efficiency;
· level of commitment and leadership;
· innovation; and
· ability of the project to serve as a model for others.
The entry form and further information, including examples of past winners, can be found August 1st on the Web at: http://www.moea.state.mn.us/p2/govaward.cfm. Applications are also available by calling 651-215-0242 or toll-free at 1-800-657-3864. The application deadline is September 15, 2006. Winners of the award will be recognized at Minnesota's Air, Water, and Waste Environmental Conference in February 2007. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is also accepting applications for the Governor's MnGREAT Awards (Minnesota Government Reaching Environmental Achievements Together), which recognizes governmental organizations with exemplary waste reduction and pollution prevention projects. Visit http://www.moea.state.mn.us/lc/mngreat.cfm for more information. The MPCA is a state agency dedicated to helping Minnesotans protect, conserve and improve our environment and enhance our quality of life.