Nominations and applications are now open for the 2026 Environmental Awards, inviting local environmental innovators to apply or be nominated. Last year’s recipients included a clergyman who redesigned parking lots and two high school students who repurposed newspapers and plastic bottles. The awards recognize individuals and groups involved in local sustainability efforts.
Reverend Jemonde Taylor led Raleigh's Stormwater Management Advisory Commission, overseeing projects that now treat nearly 11 acres of impervious surfaces. The Commission also launched 191 Raleigh Rainwater Reward projects, which captured 1.4 million gallons of stormwater last year.
According to the City of Raleigh, Ivy Huynh and Rebecca Wang, students at Neuse Christian Academy, won the Trashion Fashion competition with their "The Golden Goddess" dress, made from newspapers and water bottle flowers. Their design focused on sustainability and recycling.
Five students in grades 8 through 12 received the Capture It! Award for creating a video highlighting the relationship between water pollution and marine life. Their project presented both the challenges and potential solutions for protecting water resources.
Entries for the 2026 Environmental Awards are open across multiple categories, including businesses, students, public transit initiatives, and non-profits. Applications and nominations are available on the City of Raleigh website.
