Media Contact: Alan Heymann (202) 741-2136

Washington, DC – The District Department of the Environment (DDOE) is encouraging local businesses to apply for the first annual Mayor’s Environmental Excellence Awards. The awards will recognize outstanding businesses and organizations for their environmental stewardship, innovative best practices, pollution prevention and resource conservation.  The deadline to apply is January 30, 2009.

“The District is home to many outstanding green businesses, “ said DDOE Director George S. Hawkins. “These awards will recognize the great contributions they make every day, and the example they set for the rest of our commercial sector.”

The District Government will recognize innovation in the following six specific categories:

• Construction/Development  
• Hotel     
• Innovation in Green Products or Services 
• Restaurant/Food Service  
• Retail    
• Partner (association, non-profit)

Businesses may also choose to apply under a general category:

• Small Business (100 or fewer employees)
• Large Business (More than 100 employees)

Partner of the Year
This award will be given to an organization that promotes environmental practices on behalf of the District of Columbia and its residents.   This category is open to associations, business improvement districts, non-profit organizations, and other partners.

There is no charge to apply. For more information and an application form, please visit the DDOE website or contact Mary Lynn Wilhere at (202) 535-1939 or marylynn.wilhere@dc.gov.