NYS DEC is now accepting applications for New York State’s annual Environmental Excellence Awards. Eligible applicants include businesses, educational institutions, not-for-profit organizations, facilities, government agencies and individuals implementing innovative, sustainable actions or working in creative partnership to improve and protect New York’s environmental resources and contribute to a viable economy.

To be eligible, a project must be in New York State; result in measurable environmental and economic benefits beyond what could have been achieved by using standard techniques or complying with regulatory requirements; be initiated within the past three years and be fully operational for at least 12 months. Applicants must be in compliance with New York Environmental Conservation Law, applicable permits and local laws.

Review criteria will include an assessment of: environmental benefits; economic benefits; innovative approach of the project; advancement of sustainability; how creative partnerships were created or strengthened by the project; demonstration of commitment, leadership and environmental excellence, demonstration of transferability and the demonstration that practices go beyond standard techniques or compliance requirements.

Winners will be honored at an awards ceremony that will be held later this year.

The 2015 Application Brochure and “Tips for Applicants” document are available on NYS DEC’s website. Applications must be postmarked by Friday, April 10, 2015.

For more information about the Environmental Excellence Awards program, contact DEC’s Division of Environmental Permits and Pollution Prevention, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-1750, Phone: (518) 402-9469, Fax (518) 402-9168, E-mail awards@dec.ny.gov.