The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality revealed the recipients of the 2024 Governor’s Texas Environmental Excellence Awards. Among the winners are organizations, educators, and individuals who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation.

In the realm of civic and community initiatives, Keep San Angelo Beautiful's Tires-To-Go project was recognized for its contributions. Similarly, Keep Irving Beautiful's KIB Environmental Education program stood out in the education category. Venessa Wallace from Peet Junior High in Conroe was acknowledged as the Environmental Educator of the Year for her work in wildlife management education.

Parkland Health in Dallas earned accolades for its Holistic Energy Management Framework in the category of Innovative Operations/Management. Meanwhile, Don and Penny Johnson from Missouri City were honored for their lifetime dedication to environmental education as individuals.

The Port of Houston's efforts towards carbon neutrality, electrification, and sustainability earned them the Pollution Prevention award. Trinity River Authority of Texas in Arlington was recognized for its Information Technology project, specifically the Digital Twin initiative. The Tarrant Regional Water District in Fort Worth received the Water Conservation award for its Learn and Grow Program.

On the youth front, Ella Elkins from San Angelo was commended for her Plastic Recycling Project. These winners and finalists will be celebrated at an awards banquet in Austin on May 15 by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

The Texas Environmental Excellence Awards, established in 1993, aims to acknowledge and promote environmental preservation and protection endeavors. Over the years, the program has recognized more than 250 successful environmental projects and activities. The full list of this year's winners and finalists can be accessed at www.TEEA.org.