Committee for a Better Environment Green Award
Each year, the City of College Park Committee for a Better Environment (CBE) recognizes special efforts made by members of the local community to protect the environment.
In addition to commending those who have contributed in some way to a healthier environment, CBE hopes to increase environmental awareness and encourage wider appreciation and adoption of environmentally sound practices.
City residents, businesses, organizations, associations, or institutions who are chosen for an award will be honored with a certificate of recognition and a $100 check from the City.
Who’s Eligible?
Residents of College Park, as well as businesses, organizations, associations, and institutions which operate or are located in the city.
Members of CBE, Bee City or their immediate family members and workplaces are not eligible for an award.
Categories of Awards:
1. Environmental 3-R’s: reduce, reuse, recycle
2. Environmentally friendly landscaping and beautification
3. Conservation of natural resources
4. Pollinator-friendly actions
5. Other environmental achievements
Up to four awards are given per year. Nominations are accepted and awarded on a rolling basis.
The Green Award winners for 2023 are:
Girl Scout Troop 96
Nominated by Alan Hew
The Girl Scouts supported and participated in the City’s Spring Tree giveaway and Bee City USA’s Pollinator Week Bee Hotel Workshop. They planted a Pollinator Garden at the Permaculture Garden and built a Bee Hotel Sculpture at Calvert Road along the Trolley Trail
Sean Phelan
Nominated by Alan Hew
For leading a beautification project at the American Legion Post 217, featuring a large pollinator garden where 150-200 native pollinator plants were planted, and a rain barrel was installed. Sean continues to add additional plants and maintains the garden.
Victor and Irina Yakovenko
Nominated by Anahi Espindola
For Environmental Leadership and Stewardship. Victor and Irina Yakovenko of Calvert Hills use solar and geothermic power, they super-insulated their home, and have a cool roof. They have high-efficiency appliances and lighting as well as high-efficiency low-E windows. They created a website where they share their knowledge and provide guidance to others.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority
Nominated by Todd Larsen
For Environmental Leadership and Stewardship. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority has helped with several City environmental events. They helped the Tree and Landscape Board distribute trees in the Fall of 2022 and they volunteered for a Committee for a Better Environment Permaculture weeding, planting, and cleanup event in March of 2023. The group’s passion for serving the community was inspiring to see. Their members come from all over, and working with them in our community highlights their willingness to serve wherever needed.