New Jersey’s Murphy Administration invited nominations for the 26th Governor’s Environmental Excellence Awards, the state’s environmental awards program that each year honors the accomplishments of individuals, businesses, organizations and communities to protect New Jersey’s air, land, water and natural resources.
Those interested may nominate themselves, their employer, or another company, individual, institution, or organization they believe is worthy of recognition. Only one application per nominee will be accepted and there is no cost to apply.
“Across New Jersey, many people work hard every day to protect and enhance our environment,” said environmental protection commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette. “The Governor’s Environmental Excellence Award program is our chance to thank the environmental heroes among us and give them the recognition they deserve as trailblazers that serve as an inspiration to all of us.”
Award nominations will be accepted in nine categories:
- Climate Resilience
- Climate Change Mitigation
- Watershed Management and Water Resources
- Healthy Ecosystems and Habitats
- Healthy Communities
- Sustainability and Waste Reduction
- Environmental Justice
- Environmental Educator
- James J. Florio Emerging Environmental Leader (this category is only for New Jersey youth up to 24 years old)
Nominees will be evaluated for their impact on the environment, actions to address the needs of New Jersey, leadership and innovation, and use of outreach and educational activities to make an impact in their community.
The DEP, New Jersey Infrastructure Bank, and the New Jersey Corporation for Advanced Technology sponsor the awards program, which has recognized over 200 winners since its launch in 2000. Winners will be notified in late fall and honored at an awards ceremony in December.
“The significance of these awards is our recognition of the efforts of everyday individuals to make New Jersey a cleaner, safer and better place to live,” said David Zimmer, executive director of the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank.
Visit the DEP’s Awards Overview webpage and view a new promotional video to learn more about each category, and eligibility and application requirements.
Published August 2025
