This Earth Day, Clark County Public Health is honoring environmental sustainability leaders in local K-12 schools and businesses with the 2024 Green Awards. The annual Green Awards highlight the accomplishments of individuals and organizations and celebrate their commitment to reducing harmful environmental impacts, educating others, and giving back to the community. 

This year’s awards recognize two local educators and three Green Businesses for their commitment to creating a healthy and sustainable culture in their communities. Winners will receive unique trophies crafted by students at Washougal High School and made entirely from recycled materials. 

The Clark County Green Schools and Green Business programs thank everyone who submitted an application for this year’s Green Awards and encourage applicants to apply again next year. 

Here are the 2024 Green Awards winners: 

Jennifer Baybado – Green Apple Award for an individual involved in school sustainability programs Jennifer Baybado is a third grade teacher at Sacajawea Elementary School in Vancouver who is a true sustainability champion in her school. She and her green team implement programs to help students reduce waste, properly recycle and compost their food scraps. She is taking the lead in creating an outdoor learning area with raised garden beds, work bin benches and outdoor seating for students to learn and grow. 

Linda Kubes – Green Apple Award for an individual involved in school sustainability programs 
Linda Kubes is a teaching assistant at the Washington State School for the Blind. Over the last few years, she has led the green team, otherwise known as the Green Beings, in completing sustainability projects around campus. Those projects include organizing litter clean ups, composting using worm bins, starting a school garden and improving recycling. Last year, Linda helped the Green Beings receive the 2023 Green Team of the Year Award. Student Charles Johnson perfectly describes Linda: “Ms. Linda sees the potential in all students who are part of the Green Beings and even though we may not all have perfect sight, she sees that we can all be part of a sustainable future.” 

Kindred Homestead Supply – Small Green Business of the Year (fewer than 25 employees) 
Kindred Homestead Supply is a beacon of sustainability for the Vancouver community. Offering more than just retail goods, it serves as a gathering point for those dedicated to conscious living. With thoughtfully stocked shelves full of eco-friendly home supplies and locally sourced products, Kindred echoes a commitment to reduce our collective environmental impact. They empower patrons with the tools and knowledge to embrace sustainable practices like waste reduction and composting through various community workshops and events. Inclusivity is at the core of their practices, inviting individuals from all walks of life to join the movement towards a greener, more connected world. Kindred Homestead Supply isn't just a store—it's a testament to the power of collective action in nurturing both the planet and the community. 

Jacobs – Large Green Business of the Year (more than 25 employees)  
In partnership with the city of Vancouver, Jacobs spearheads solutions in wastewater treatment and demonstrates their commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement. Through a blend of operational excellence and engineering ingenuity, they deliver cost-effective and award-winning utility services, ensuring regulatory compliance while prioritizing employee and community well-being. Jacobs' initiatives span waste reduction, energy conservation and water reuse, underpinned by a company-wide culture of sustainability. Their community outreach efforts, including educational tours and beach cleanups, inspire environmental awareness and inclusivity. Jacobs' dedication to sustainability sets a benchmark for the industry. 

Columbia Springs – Nonprofit Green Business of the Year 
Columbia Springs, a nonprofit organization in Vancouver, offers a remarkable 100-acre urban natural site that serves as an expansive outdoor classroom, drawing in thousands of students and community members annually. Through diverse educational programs, walking trails and events, Columbia Springs fosters a community of lifelong learners and land stewards. From the Salmon in the Classroom initiative to public events like guided hikes and nature fun days, Columbia Springs engages diverse audiences, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and environmental stewardship. Additionally, their Repair Program exemplifies sustainability by repairing broken household items, thus reducing waste and fostering a sense of community around reuse practices. Through education, outreach and active stewardship, Columbia Springs serves as a vital local resource, empowering individuals to connect with nature and embrace sustainable living practices.

Visit the Green Business and Green Schools websites to learn more about these Clark County Public Health programs.