News Releases - 2002

Green Youth Award Recognizes Students In DuQuion For Outstanding Environmental Project

Springfield, Ill. -- Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Director Renee Cipriano today presented a Green Youth Award to the DuQuoin Middle School 7th Grade Science Class in a ceremony at the State Capitol.

They were among the 11 winners of the first annual Green Youth Awards for outstanding environmental protection and conservation projects by Illinois young people.

"We are committed to encouraging and recognizing outstanding youth-led activities that set an example for making our environment cleaner and greener," said Director Cipriano. "I was thrilled with not only the high quality of projects submitted but also with the wonderful innovations involved in protecting Illinois' environment."

The DuQuoin Middle School 7th Grade Science Class received this award for their Learning As We Grow project. These students are involved in several educational initiatives including developing a wetland area, a native forest plot, and a wood duck nesting area. Students will collect and record data allowing future classes to compare and analyze it from year to year.

Through Governor Ryan's innovative Green Illinois program, government and communities have been encouraged to make Illinois a safe and healthy place to live.

"Through the Green Youth Awards we hope to encourage youth to continue pursuing environmental projects now and in the future," said Director Cipriano during her remarks at the afternoon ceremony.

The projects must have involved one or more of the following categories: waste reduction, reduction of pollution in the air, water or land; restoration or preservation of natural areas; energy or water efficiency; or cleanup/beautification.

Youth 17 or younger, in kindergarten through 12th grade, enrolled in public, private or home school, who participated in an environmental project begun no earlier than January 2000 were eligible to apply.