The award, presented by the Cornell University President's Sustainable Campus Committee, recognized the initiative for its ongoing partnership in regional carbon reduction strategies, according to a statement released by Cornell.

Among the achievements of the group are the creation of peer-to-peer mentoring, development of a regional strategy for achieving reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and the development of financing mechanisms for homeowners and businesses to achieve greenhouse gas reduction targets.

In the statement, Cornell sustainability manager Daniel Roth said, "By recognizing groups that partner with higher education institutions to advance sustainability, we build on the successes of research and teaching, and acknowledge that we must also bring together practitioners and leaders throughout the world in support of new policies and practices."

The award is given each year to one or more recipients who have made significant contributions to the sustainable development of New York and the Cornell campus through collaboration with the university, according to the statement.

Award winners are evaluated on research, regional stewardship, education and public engagement.

This award is a wonderful recognition of the good work carried out by the coalition and a reminder of how much work remains to be done.