New Jersey LCV also recognized and presented awards to environmental champions. The following individuals and organizations were honored for their environmental leadership:

Sustainability Award — in recognition of committing to a sustainable future in New Jersey, integrating sustainability in everyday life, and making sustainability more accessible to the public: Verizon, accepted by Sowmyanarayan Sampath, CEO for Verizon Consumer Group.

Emerald Award — in appreciation of outstanding devotion to the protection of New Jersey’s precious air, water and open space: New Jersey Sen. Andrew Zwicker (D-Hillsborough); New Jersey Assemblyman Raj Mukherji (D-Jersey City); Somerset County Commissioner Melanie Marano.

Founders Award — in appreciation of outstanding leadership, vision and devoted service to the success of New Jersey LCV: U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone (D-6th Dist.).

Changemaker Award — in recognition of making an incomparable difference for New Jersey’s environment in your community and the lives of others: Capt. Bill Sheehan, Hackensack Riverkeeper; Henal Patel, New Jersey Institute for Social Justice; Sam Pesin, Friends of Liberty State Park.