The Wirth Chair at the Graduate School of Public Affairs, University of Colorado Denver, has announced the winners of the 8th annual Wirth Chair Awards. The statewide awards, which focus on sustainable development, are given in three categories: excellence and depth of media coverage of sustainable topics; community projects or persons which foster sustainable principles; and businesses which feature sustainable strategies as part of their daily operations. The Wirth Chair Advisory Board chooses the winners.
Media winners are Jinah Kim of KUSA-TV, Channel 9, Denver, for three segments on the significance of recycling; Jerd Smith and Todd Hartman of the Rocky Mountain News for a five part series on water issues in Colorado; and Allen Best and the Vail Daily for a seven part series on global warming and the possible effects on climate dependent industries such as skiing.
Community Awards went to Jay Clapper of Wray. Clapper offset a large cut in his school district’s budget by securing funding for a wind turbine to provide less expensive and cleaner energy for the district. He then got additional money by selling the remaining energy to the town. Eric Lombardi of Eco-Cycle in Boulder and co-founder of Zero Waste based in Wales, will receive the other community award for his work in promoting strategies that make recycling a habit and in reinforcing the idea that “trash is not inevitable. Waste is a product of bad design.”
The Business Award went to the Aspen Skiing Co. for their many industry leading innovations and commitment to sustainable recreation, greenhouse gas emission reduction, and energy management and conservation strategies.
A Special Recognition Award went to cityWILD, a Northeast Denver organization that serves high risk minority middle and high school aged youth. The mission is to provide low-income culturally diverse students with outdoor and environmental experiences that promote themes of personal empowerment, leadership and community participation.
Distinguished Service Awards went to Ed Marston, former publisher, High Country News; and, Bert Melcher, longtime environmental and sustainable transportation advocate.
The awards will be presented at a luncheon on April 4 at the downtown Denver Marriott. Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper will offer opening remarks and the Honorable Tim Wirth, President of the United Nations Foundation, will be the featured speaker. For additional information, call 303- 352-3766.