(New York, NY) Each year, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency honors individuals, businesses and organizations that have contributed significantly to improving the environment and protecting public health in New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and eight federally recognized Indian Nations. EPA is encouraging nominations for this annual award. Winners will be honored at an awards event on May 13, 2016 at EPA's regional office in Manhattan. The Agency is accepting nominations for its Environmental Champion Awards until March 1, 2016.

"EPA's prestigious Environmental Champion Award recognizes the hard work, vision and courage exhibited by local leaders who are committed to environmental protection. Everyone is encouraged to nominate people who are stellar leaders in this arena" said EPA Regional Administrator Judith A. Enck.

The awards recognize achievement in six categories:

• Business and Industry
• Individual Citizen
• Non-Profit Organization, Environmental or Community Group
• Environmental Education
• Federal, State, Local or Tribal Government or Agency
• Media

For award criteria, prior winners and nomination instructions, visit EPA's Environmental Champion Award webpage at http://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/environmental-champion-awards.

For additional information, please contact Chris Sebastian, Public Affairs Division, at (212) 637-3597 or sebastian.chris@epa.gov.

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