2026 Environmental Awards Applications
Who's making a difference in your neighborhood? We want to celebrate them. The 2026 Environmental Awards are open for applications and nominations until Feb. 22.
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Raleigh Environmental Stewardship Award - Reverend Jemonde Taylor
Reverend Jemonde Taylor embodies the spirit of a Raleigh Environmental Steward. During his tenure on the Stormwater Management Advisory Commission, he supported efforts to approve nearly $2 million dollars in Raleigh Rainwater Rewards funding, creating important green stormwater infrastructure to combat flooding hazards.
Taylor doesn't just advocate for green infrastructure. He lives it. His church, Saint Ambrose Episcopal Church on Darby Street, has 2 stormwater projects that protect water quality while strengthening the community.
He's also shared Raleigh's story nationally, presenting at the US Water Alliance Water Equity Network and led stormwater discussions for our city's Comprehensive Plan.
Rebecca Wang and Ivy Huynh – Youth second place award winners
Creators of the “Golden Goddess”
Every detail tells a story. The newspaper dress features carefully layered and folded pages that create an elegant silhouette. The printed words become patterns. Each water bottle flower was cut, shaped and heated by hand until it looked real.
The finishing touch? An angel-inspired headband made from drinking straws, silver foil and bottle caps. "The circular shape of the caps reminds us of the second life of this useful waste," the students explained.
Their work proves that sustainable fashion isn't just possible. It's beautiful.
