LOWER MERION — The Lower Merion Township Environmental Advisory Council (EAC) recently announced that nominations for the 2026 “Go for the Green” Awards are open until April 3, with the awards ceremony scheduled for May 9.

These awards recognize local residents, businesses, organizations, and schools in Lower Merion and Narberth for achievements in environmental protection, sustainability, and resource management.

The annual Go for the Green Awards highlight local efforts that reduce environmental impact, preserve natural resources, and advance sustainability in the built environment throughout Lower Merion Township.

Community members are encouraged to nominate individuals, schools, businesses, or organizations whose work reflects innovation, commitment, and measurable environmental benefit. Nominations are open now and must be submitted by Friday, April 3.

Award recipients will be honored at an awards ceremony and public event at the Ludington Library on Saturday, May 9, 2026.

“The Go for the Green Awards celebrate the people and projects that are helping make Lower Merion a healthier, more sustainable place to live,” said Paloma Vila, Lower Merion Township sustainability manager. “We encourage residents to help us recognize the inspiring work happening across our community.”

The Go for the Green Award applications are assessed on the successful and creative implementation of programs that advance Lower Merion Township’s sustainability plan priorities for the community.

Examples of high-impact areas and sample programs include: Energy Transition (energy efficiency, “electrify everything,” switch to zero-carbon energy sources/renewable, use of low GWP refrigerants, EVs, etc.); Resource Management (increasing tree canopy, reducing invasive plants, native gardens, sustainable lawn management, etc.); Waste Reduction (recycling programs, composting, circular economy, upcycling, etc.); Community Engagement and Environmental Education (environmental education programs and campaigns, social media or marketing programs, and youth advocacy initiatives); Water Stewardship (water efficiency, stormwater reduction, improving local waterway quality, etc.); Green Design (implementing sustainable design principles, renewable energy projects (residential and commercial), LEED certification, passive design, low-carbon and sustainable materials, etc.)

Some of the award categories include the Joseph M. Manko and Maki San Miguel Paulson Achievement Award, which is presented for significant, long-term contributions to the environment, epitomized by a career in public service or community advocacy, including environmental legal education, nonprofit board service, municipal sustainability advocacy, or education.

The award is in memory of long-time Lower Merion Commissioner and former EPA Region 3 General Counsel Joseph M. Manko and Makie San Miguel Paulson, a Lower Merion Environmental Advisory Council member, who exemplified creativity and tenacity in seeking solutions to global warming and preserving natural resources.

Other awards include the resident award, which is presented to an individual residing in Lower Merion or Narberth who has made or is making a material contribution to the protection and enhancement of energy conservation or natural resources or to the making of a more sustainable community.

The commercial award goes to an enterprise conducting business in Lower Merion or Narberth that has made or is making a material contribution to the protection and enhancement of energy conservation, natural resources, or to the making of a more sustainable community.

For more information on the awards with links to the nomination site, go to www.lowermerion.org/government/other-boards-and-commissions/environmental-advisory-council/go-for-the-green-awards-program.