Governor’s Environmental Stewardship Awards

Recipients of this award are recognized for innovative practices that advance sustainable agricultural and forestry activities. Initiatives may focus on environmentally responsible land and asset management, water and stormwater solutions, soil conservation, fertilization methods, farming techniques, processing improvements, byproduct and materials management, transportation, or other food system production approaches. Special consideration is given to initiatives that increase profitability and resource efficiency, improve product or service quality, promote equity and human health, and strengthen communities through resilience and partnerships.

Recipients of this award are recognized for excellence in sustainable building design, construction, and land use. Initiatives may include innovation in site selection, structural design, deconstruction and construction practices, materials sourcing, operational efficiency in energy and water use, building longevity, adaptive reuse, occupant health, or carbon reduction. Initiatives that incorporate infill development, brownfield revitalization, underutilized land reuse, green space preservation, repurposing of existing structures, and livable community and complete street designs receive special consideration.

Recipients of this award are recognized for initiatives that measurably reduce harmful air pollutants, greenhouse gases, acid rain precursors, and other emissions that affect land and water. Initiatives may include pollution prevention technologies, logistics or infrastructure improvements, or operational changes that improve air quality. Transportation-related initiatives may involve enhanced transit or multimodal systems, reductions in emissions from on-road and non-road sources, or transportation demand management strategies. Special consideration is given to initiatives that provide broad community benefits, ensure equitable access, and support diverse audiences. Cap and trade activities are not eligible.

Recipients of this award are recognized for advancing the use of alternative fuels, expanding energy efficiency, conservation, or resilience strategies, or implementing innovative energy and fuel technologies. Inititatives may improve the energy performance of buildings, vehicles, or equipment, deploy renewable energy systems, support the development of advanced energy technologies, or reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Special consideration is given to initiatives that demonstrate a comprehensive approach connecting environmental benefits with social and economic gains.

Recipients of this award are recognized for outstanding initiatives that inspire environmental stewardship, increase public awareness, and lead to meaningful environmental protection. Initiatives may include demonstration projects, awareness campaigns, and community-based programs focused on issues such as waste reduction, water and energy conservation, or non-point source pollution.

Recipients of this award are recognized for conserving natural resources and reducing costs through waste prevention, toxicity reduction, reuse, recycling, composting, environmentally preferable purchasing, supply chain improvements, and product design. Inititatives may involve input or product reformulation, production process redesign, conservation strategies, or beneficial reuse and land application. Special consideration is given to initiatives that demonstrate a comprehensive approach linking environmental, social, and economic benefits.

Recipients of this award are recognized for innovative efforts to preserve, protect, restore, and enhance Tennessee’s natural, geologic, and ecological resources. Initiatives may include work in open spaces, wetlands, estuaries, biodiversity protection, endangered species conservation, or land preservation. Initiatives may occur in rural, suburban, or urban settings and may create or restore green spaces, greenways, parks, or natural aquatic features. Special consideration is given to projects that support both natural and cultural resources and strengthen communities.

Recipients of this award are recognized for at least twenty years of exceptional service in environmental protection or conservation in Tennessee. Recipients have demonstrated notable dedication through work in natural resource management, conservation, education, public service, or policy leadership that has contributed significantly to the environmental well-being of the state.

Recipients of this award are recognized for demonstrating a holistic and long-term commitment to sustainability. Initiatives show achievement in multiple operational areas, such as facility lifecycle management, supply chain practices, community engagement, employee involvement, and product or service design. These achievements integrate environmental values into organizational decision-making and long-term planning.

Recipients of this award are recognized for measurable innovation in improving water quality, preserving water quantity, enhancing aquatic health, and advancing water treatment or conservation practices. Initiatives may include restoration efforts, water protection strategies, pollution prevention technologies, alternative water supplies, or system and operational improvements that result in cleaner water or more efficient water use. Special consideration is given to initiatives that utilize innovative technologies, offer replicable solutions, and demonstrate strong potential for broader application.