Westchester Reporter

Apr 18 2024

Westchester County Executive George Latimer and First Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Facilities Louis Vetrone recently honored outstanding achievements in environmental stewardship at the 5th annual Eco Awards held at Glen Island Park. The event recognized individuals and organizations for their dedication to sustainability and community well-being.

Latimer commended the winners, stating, “The initiatives and projects led by the recipients of this year’s Eco Awards have made a significant impact on Westchester County’s environment. These achievements inspire all of us to continue to help make Westchester County, and our planet, the best it can be.”

Vetrone echoed this sentiment, expressing the Department of Environmental Facilities' privilege in hosting the Eco Awards and acknowledging the contributions of the winners towards making Westchester County a leader in environmental efforts.

Among the 2024 Eco Award Winners were the Greystone Food Scrap Program for diverting 8 tons of food scraps from the waste stream, Melanie Tucker for her Capstone Project on recycling education, and the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated - Zeta Nu Omega Chapter for their garden project promoting composting and greenhouse gardening.

Other winners included the City of White Plains for establishing a local composting site, Hilltop Hanover Farm for their Community Work Day for Native Plants Care, and Balaboste for their emphasis on zero waste principles in service offerings.

The City of Rye was recognized for achieving the highest municipal curbside recycling rate in Westchester County, while the Village of Irvington received accolades for the highest waste percent reduction in the county. Furthermore, Brightcore Energy was commended for providing environmentally friendly energy options, and David Tonjes of Stony Brook University was recognized for research on solid waste management.

Westchester County continues to lead in recycling and environmental initiatives, with upcoming public programs in celebration of Earth Month. Household Recycling Days and a Compost Giveback event are planned to make recycling more accessible to residents.

For more information on these events and other environmental initiatives, residents are encouraged to visit Facebook.com/WestchesterCountyDEF or contact the Recycling Help Line at (914)813-5425.