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Denton, TX, Racking Up Sustainability Awards
by Rena Ragimova
Denton, TX, Courthouse Square (Credit: David@UNT via flickr)
Over the past several years, the City of Denton, TX, has been working hard to create a sustainable community through initiatives ranging from clean energy to clean water. This year city officials are getting much-deserved national recognition for their work, and collecting numerous high-profile sustainability-related awards from the U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM), the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), and the American Public Power Association (APPA). ICLEI USA extends its congratulations for City of Denton's remarkable sustainability leadership!
Below are the recent awards the City has received:
Outstanding Achievement
Award (Livability)
Denton was one of five cities to receive an Outstanding Achievement Award from the U.S. Conference of Mayors as one of the most livable cities in America with a population of 100,000 or more. The award, sponsored by Waste Management Inc., recognizes city governments for developing programs that enhance the quality of life in urban areas. With a population of just 113,000, Denton was the smallest city in its category to receive the award.
2011 Public Power Wind Award
On June 21, the Department of Energy announced Denton Municipal Electric as a co-recipient of the 2011 Public Power Wind Award along with San Antonio-based CPS Energy. The award recognized Denton's entrance into the wind power market in 2009. In one year Denton reduced its carbon footprint by 424,128 tons of CO2. Wind now powers 40% of the city government's energy needs and this power is available to city residents at no extra cost.
Community Service Award
Denton Municipal Electric picked up another award from the American Public Power Association for its efforts in developing a closer relationship with the city and the community of Denton. By being involved in city events, Denton Municipal Electric has been able to provide educational opportunities for kids and adults and raise environmental awareness in the community.
Best Tasting City Water in America Finalist
At the U.S. Conference of Mayors annual meeting, City of Denton was recognized as one of five
finalists in the Best Tasting City Water in America contest. In the past, Denton has received awards for the Best Tasting
Water in Texas as well as a “superior” rating from the State of Texas.
With clean power, clean water, and great communication between the city,
utilities and residents, the city of Denton is focused on making
sustainability a whole community effort and ICLEI is proud to help assist the City with its efforts.
