The Sustainable Scottsdale Awards program recognizes those spearheading significant environmental advancements in Scottsdale. This award spotlights the innovative "change makers" that have made a positive environmental impact in our community, motivating and inspiring actions that enhance the quality of life in our city and making Scottsdale a more livable and eco-friendly city.

Applications will be assessed using two main benchmarks:

1. Producing impacts: Honors those who demonstrate exceptional tangible improvements through their sustainability efforts.
2. Fostering Innovation: Recognizes those that contribute in new ways to a more sustainable Scottsdale.

Process Overview

The application process will have two rounds. For the first round, applicants will submit a brief impact statement that tells their sustainability story. Finalists will be selected using the assessment benchmarks and will be asked to respond to no more than four additional questions. Supporting materials may be needed to provide sufficient detail for the Scottsdale Environmental Advisory Commission to select the honoree(s), who will be announced in April 2025.

Who's eligible? Our aim is to celebrate environmental achievements across the entire spectrum of Scottsdale's community. No matter your size, sector, or scope - if you're making a green difference in Scottsdale, we want to hear from you!

• Small and Large Businesses
• Non-Profit Organizations
• Individuals
• Associations
• Educational Institutions
• Teams

Notes:

• Sorry, but facilities or programs directly hosted by the City of Scottsdale are not eligible.
• Your impact has to be local to Scottsdale. Businesses or organizations headquartered elsewhere that have a local impact are eligible to apply. Those that are located in Scottsdale with no direct impact in Scottsdale are not eligible. 

We're on the lookout for exceptional work in areas like:

• Water Conservation: Initiatives or technologies that reduce water usage and preserve our precious water resources.
• Sustainability & Green Practices: Innovative ways to live and work sustainably.
• Renewable Energy: Harnessing the power of solar and other renewable energy sources.
• Air & Water Quality: Efforts to keep our air and water clean and safe.
• Recycling & Waste Reduction: Turning trash into treasure and minimizing waste.
• Waste Innovation: Creative ways to compost or repurpose waste.
• Energy Efficiency: Smart use of energy that conserves resources.
• Environmental Education & Leadership: Spreading knowledge and leading by example.
• Community Impact: Actions that significantly improve Scottsdale's environment and quality of life.

Nomination Made Simple: Easy as 1, 2, DONE

1. STEP 1: Fill out the form: Just complete the super-short application form below.
   HOT TIP: the nomination form includes a 500-1000 word essay. It would be a good idea to craft the essay in a separate application (like Word) and then paste it in when you are filling out the official nomination to avoid losing content.
2. STEP 2: Tell your story: Share how you have been innovative and made an impact in Scottsdale. Keep it short and engaging! (500 - 1,000 words)
3. STEP 3: Hit submit! Finalists will be notified in December and asked to share additional data and information to support their application.  

Optional Extras: Feel free to add data, photos, or videos. They're not required, but they can really help your nomination stand out (please no more than five additional pages of information)!

What's in Store? Honoree(s) will be announced during Earth Week. This award is our way of saying 'thank you' and spotlighting the incredible efforts that make Scottsdale a more sustainable and vibrant place.

When do applications open?

Monday, Sept. 9, 2024

When is the deadline for applications?

Thursday, Oct. 31, 2024 at 5 p.m.

What is the Sustainable Scottsdale Awards Program?

The program recognizes major environmental contributions in Scottsdale by individuals, businesses, associations, educational institutions, and organizations.

Why should I care about this award?

It honors eco-champions, encourages sustainable collaborations, and inspires positive changes in Scottsdale.

What types of activities qualify?

Applications can focus on a range of areas: water conservation, sustainability, renewable energy, clean air and water, recycling, waste reduction, energy efficiency, environmental education, community impact, architecture, landscape architecture, urban design, and planning.

Note: Sorry, but facilities or programs directly hosted by the City of Scottsdale are not eligible. Also, impact has to be local to Scottsdale. Businesses or organizations headquartered elsewhere that have a local impact are eligible to apply. Those that are located in Scottsdale with no direct impact in Scottsdale are not eligible. 

How do I apply?

• Fill Out Form: Complete the application on our website.
• Impact Statement: Write about your project's impact (500-1,000 words).
• Finalists will be notified in December and asked to answer additional questions about their efforts. 
  

*Optional: Add data, photos, or videos to enhance your application.

What do honoree(s) receive?

Honoree(s) will be recognized during Earth Week, when their efforts will be highlighted for making Scottsdale more sustainable.

Can anyone submit a nomination?

Yes, both self-nominations and nominations for others are welcome.

Who chooses the honoree(s)?

The Scottsdale Environmental Advisory Commission reviews applications and selects the honoree(s) at their March 2025 meeting.

Are collaborations eligible?

Absolutely! We love seeing joint efforts.

When are honoree(s) announced?

During Earth Week 2025.

Can I apply if I was honored before?

Yes, if you have new, impactful work.

What makes a nomination stand out?

Nominations describing measurable success, creativity, and inspiring stories shine the brightest.

Where can I get more information? Who do I contact if I have questions?

Staff Contact:
Lisa McNeilly, Sustainability Director
Email Lisa McNeilly
480-312-2831