Four organizations were presented with the Mayor’s EnviroGuard Award on Wednesday, October 21 for their commitment to the environment.

Four very diverse organizations were presented with the Mayor’s EnviroGuard Award Wednesday, October 21 for their commitment to the environment. This year’s winners prove that green business practices can happen in the workplace no matter the size or type of the business. The diverse mix of winners include Micron Technology, one of Idaho’s largest and most well known companies, John William Jackson Fund,a small family operated non-profit organization, Thornton Oliver Keller, a large commercial real estate firm, and Outback Steakhouse, a locally-owned and operated restaurant chain.

Since 1998, the EnviroGuard has been presented to 40 local businesses and organizations committed to reducing waste, energy reduction and other environmentally friendly practices in the workplace. Mayor David Bieter presented the awards to this year’s class of winners Wednesday at the Boise WaterShed Environmental Education Center.

"It’s important to recognize the businesses taking extra steps to ensure the sustainability and livability of our community," Mayor David Bieter said. "By using creative approaches, these businesses have decreased their environmental impact and set an example for others to follow in the workplace."

An independent committee made up of small and large business owners, city and state agencies and business assistance organizations review the applications based on established criteria. The criteria include significant environmental benefits, waste reduction, economic benefit to the company and efficient use of raw materials.

“The EnviroGuard Pollution Prevention Award is a terrific honor that is shared with all members of the John William Jackson Fund and the Idaho Youth Education Recycling Partnership,” said founder Bill “Action Jackson. “This award will encourage us to continue our work in environmental stewardship, pollution prevention and recycling while advancing Idaho youth programs.”

Along with receiving recognition at the special award ceremony, EnviroGuard winners receive a plaque, banner and their documented case studies are showcased on the City of Boise website. Some of the past winners include Boise State University, Second Chance Building Supply, The Bogus Basin Nordic Center, Barger-Mattson Auto Salvage, and Zamzows.

For more on the EnviroGuard Award application, go to www.cityofboise.org/departments/public_works, or call Program Coordinators Megan Kershner or Angela Deckers at 384-3901.