The Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce Environmental Affairs Committee is now accepting nominations for the 19th Annual Sustainable Quality Award Program.
Awardees will be formally honored during a special luncheon scheduled for April 30 at Le Meridien Delfina Hotel in Santa Monica.
Each year the chamber, City Hall, and environmental education organization Sustainable Works come together to identify and recognize Santa Monica businesses that have successfully incorporated sustainable practices into their operations.
What began as a collaborative effort in 1996 has developed into an annual event attracting over 300 participants each year and has featured keynote speakers such as actor Ed Begley Jr., Yvon Chouinard of Patagonia, former State Sen. Sheila Kuehl, and chef and radio host Evan Kleiman.
Past awardees include larger companies like LAcarGUY, Whole Foods Market, and Morley Builders as well as smaller businesses such as Bru's Wiffle and local consulting firm Three Squares Inc.
Sustainability is defined by City Hall as being able to meet current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to do the same.
The SQA Grand Prize will be awarded for combined excellence in three areas: economic development, social responsibility, and stewardship of the natural environment. In addition, excellence awards will honor businesses with outstanding achievements in one of the three focus areas. By recognizing these achievements, the chamber hopes to educate and inspire local businesses to adopt sustainable practices and support Santa Monica as a sustainable community providing residents and visitors with a strong economy and healthy environment, according to a press release.
Nominations may be submitted by any interested party on behalf of a Santa Monica area business. Visit smsqa.com to learn more and access the nomination form. Once completed, this nomination may be submitted via e-mail or fax. The nomination period closes Monday, Dec. 16. For any additional information, call (310) 393-9825 ext. 116.
For award presentation tickets and sponsorship information, visit smchamber.com/sqa.
