Department of Environment & Conservation
Robert Martineau, Commissioner

(25 Points)
Describe how the program or project makes a significant contribution to improving the environment, economy and community (project or program has lasting and sustainable impact; magnitude of impact is described, quantifiable, significant, and cost benefits). Nominees may reference attachments or supporting documentation.

(20 Points)
How does this program/project or individual show leadership and take steps beyond “traditional” environmental protection efforts? Does the project contribute new information or methods in protecting or enhancing the environment? Projects contribute creative methods to improve and protect the environment. Has it ever been executed successfully before? Is this the first time a project like this is being used in Tennessee?  Describe how the project incorporated practices that achieve an environmental benefit beyond what could be achieved using standard techniques.

(15 Points)
How does this program/project or individual accomplishment contribute to the environmental needs of the state of Tennessee? How does the scope of the project compare to the size and resources of the sponsoring organization(s)? Nominees may address this issue by describing such issues as originality, effectiveness in improving existing methods of meeting this need and the risks that were overcome.  Why the project was initiated, the goals of the project, how the project was accomplished, how the project was funded, and/or whether the project addresses an environmental issue that is particularly sensitive in the region where it is implemented. Projects are ambitious relative to the size and resources of the nominee.

(10 Points)
How does this program, project, or individual have a long-term impact on their business, community, region or the state? How replicable is the project to other areas i.e., across media areas, into other locations, industries or states?  Describe how the project demonstrates transferability to others.  Indicate whether the program/project lends itself to replication by other organizations or individuals. Indicate whether any project activities or results are currently being shared with others.

(10 Points)
What education and/or outreach activities were undertaken for affected individuals (employees, stakeholders, contractors, consultants etc.)? Does the project promote public awareness regarding environmental issues?  Nominees may address this by describing any educational, training, or outreach components to the project including brochures, videos, manuals, classes, seminars, or mentoring programs. Projects promote public awareness, student education, or employee/volunteer training. Does it include employee training or technology transfer? Does it encourage other environmental efforts?

(10 Points)
Does the project solicit an exceptional commitment from those involved in the effort?  Nominees may address this issue by describing any sustained efforts that were instrumental in achieving the project’s goals; formal agreements reached with key stakeholders such as land developers, local governments or communities; or any change in management practices and/or written policies that may have occurred as a result of the project. Projects demonstrate a sustained commitment to environmental stewardship. Is the project self-sustaining or ongoing? Does it go significantly beyond legal requirements? Does it address other social needs, such as environmental equity? Does it solve a serious environmental problem or result in a significant positive impact on the environment? Does your project take place in a critical region? Does it address high-priority environmental need? Does it address worker or community safety concerns? Describe funding sources for the project, including any creative financing techniques or examples of how additional funds were leveraged. Does it tackle a difficult task?

(5 Points)
Demonstrates commitment to mitigation of unfair distribution of environmental risks and resources to low-income communities and/or communities of color; uses environmental education to foster culturally and economically diverse community participation to address local environmental concerns; encourages engagement of culturally and economically diverse community in collaborative and/or cooperative environmental initiatives; and advocates for sustainable development of historically disenfranchised communities.

(5 Points)
Does the project involve a collaborative effort among various entities? Does this project involve a cooperative effort between multiple entities or organizations (city/state government, industries, civic groups, schools, citizens, associations)?  Were partnerships created or strengthened by the project?