The Sherrill Administration, Trenton, New Jersey, invited nominations for the 27th annual Governor’s Environmental Excellence Awards, the state’s environmental awards program recognizing individuals, businesses, organizations and communities whose work advances innovative solutions to New Jersey’s environmental challenges.
Those interested may nominate themselves, their employer, or another company, individual, institution or organization they believe is worthy of recognition. View the eligibility requirements and submit a nomination online by Friday, August 28. Only one application per nominee will be accepted and there is no cost to apply.
“Innovative people who care deeply about our environment are tackling challenges and creating solutions that better protect public health and natural resources while strengthening our communities,” said Department of Environmental Protection acting commissioner Ed Potosnak. “If you or someone you know is one of these people, please nominate them for a Governor’s Environmental Excellence Award so that we can recognize them for the great work they are doing.”
Award Categories
Reflecting the Sherrill Administration’s priorities, this year’s awards program features two major category updates – Energy Affordability and Innovation, highlighting solutions that lower energy costs and improve efficiency, and Flooding and Climate Resilience, recognizing efforts to prepare communities for climate impacts. Several other categories have also been refined to better reflect the evolving environmental work taking place across New Jersey.
Award nominations will be accepted in nine categories:
- Energy Affordability and Innovation
- Flooding and Climate Resilience
- Watershed Management and Water Resources
- Ecosystem Stewardship
- Environmental Justice
- Healthy Communities
- Sustainability and Waste Reduction
- Environmental Education
- James J. Florio Emerging Environmental Leader (24 years or younger)
Nominees will be evaluated for their environmental impact, leadership, innovation and outreach, as well as how their efforts address New Jersey’s environmental priorities.
Winners will be notified in late fall and honored at an awards ceremony in December.
Visit the DEP’s Awards Overview webpage to learn more about the award categories, eligibility requirements and the nomination process.
Published August 2026
