| | On June 14, 2006 at the Winspear Centre in Edmonton, the 15th annual Emerald Awards honoured 36 individuals, companies, communities and associations in 12 categories. The Emerald Awards showcase excellence in properly managing the balance between the developing Alberta's natural resources and preserving the environment.
The awards celebrate outstanding environmental initiatives and achievements and bring additional public awareness to Albertans who are working to make a difference. This year, Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development are especially proud to have supported or been directly involved with four of the category winners honoured at the Emerald Awards:
- Alberta Reduced Tillage LINKAGES - not-for-profit association
- Alberta Environmental Sustainable Agriculture (AESA) Program - government institution
- Little Red Deer River Watershed Initiative - community group
- Dennis McKerracher - research and innovation (increasing drinking water efficiency in commercial pork production facilities)
"Agriculture producers have always understood the connection between their livelihood and the environment," said Doug Horner, Minister of Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development. "The more we learn about taking care of the environment and about best management practices on-farm, the more effective and efficient our farms become. Here in Alberta and internationally, food safety, food security and environmental sustainability are becoming increasingly important. I am very proud of the commitment by our staff and of agriculture producers who work with us on environmental sustainability."
The Emerald Awards, hosted by the Alberta Emerald Foundation (AEF), recognizes leadership in environmental excellence. Each year, the AEF receives over 100 nominations in the following categories:
- Not-for-profit association
- Small business
- Education: organization
- Education: school or classroom
- Government institution
- Corporate or institutional leadership
- Large business Community group
- Climate change Youth
- Research and innovation
- Individual commitment
For further information on the Foundation and on the Emerald Awards, visit the AEF website at www.emeraldfoundation.ca. |
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