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Youth climate leaders inspire hundreds at Charlotte Sustainability Awards

Each year we take an evening to celebrate the work that is being done in the Charlotte community to advance smart growth and sustainability, and each year we are blown away by the incredible work we hear about from our honorees. This year was no exception.

2019 Sustainability Awards

We were so honored to have two bright, motivated young leaders as our guest speakers. Lucia Paulsen and Kate Harrison shared their passion about the need for climate action with a room of 350 people, and received a standing ovation. These two serve as the co-presidents of NC Climate Strike, an organization of motivated students who are working to bring attention to the climate crisis, and press our leaders for change.

Lucia and Kate Sustain Awards

In addition to these inspiring young voices, WCNC’s Chief Meteorologist Brad Panovich hosted our awards ceremony, highlighting some of Charlotte’s top leaders in sustainability. We were proud to honor all of our nominees and announce our five winners:

  • Inspiring Business: Birdsong Brewing
  • Inspiring Building Project: Gateway Village
  • Inspiring Government Agency: Charlotte Office of Sustainability
  • Inspiring Nonprofit: Trips for Kids/Charlotte Re-cyclery
  • Inspiring Individual: Summer Minchew

Lucia and Kate Sustain Awards

Lucia and Kate Sustain Awards

Lucia and Kate Sustain Awards

The energy in the room was palpable as people showed their support for Sustain Charlotte’s mission, and the future of our community. Through the support of those who attended, we were able to exceed our fundraising goal of $10,000. We are so grateful to everyone who helped, and we thank you for your support!

Sustain Award Winners Toast

We look forward to continuing to work to for healthy, equitable, and vibrant communities over the next year, and honoring even more smart growth and sustainability leaders at our Awards in 2020.

Couldn’t make it to the event this year? Check out the photos here. (Photos by Sean Busher Photography).

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