Visionary homebuilder Don Bradley is committed to integrating renewable energy and green building strategies into low and zero-energy homes that can be built and operated affordably. With innovative projects spanning his 18 year green building career, including the 'Solar Pennsylvanian' (1989), the zero-energy 'Solar Patriot' (2001), Philadelphia's first affordable solar homes (2005) and now the first market-rate zero-energy solar community 'Maple Point' (2007), Don is dedicated to building sustainable housing in our city, causing change through committed action, effective partnerships and education.

Hal Taussig, president and founder of the travel company Untours, is committed to shrinking the growing gap between the rich and poor. His foundation, the Untours Foundation, provides low interest loans to create jobs, build low-income housing, and support the Fair Trade movement all through the most environmentally friendly means possible. Hal has also led the effort to create America's first Fair Trade town in Media, PA, which is now a community inspired to use its buying power to improve the lives of others.

Wissahickon Charter School (WCS) works to educate the next generation of environmental stewards through use of an integrated, service-learning based, sustainability-focused environmental education curriculum. Established as a public charter school with the mission of creating an environmentally-focused community of learning designed to stimulate the intellectual, social, and civic development of each child, WCS first welcomed 200 students in grades 1-5 in 2002. Since that time, the school has expanded in number and grade level, now providing a stimulating, environmentally-focused educational experience for a diverse and stable enrollment of 408 students in grades K-8.

Trends in southeastern Pennsylvania showed the loss of an alarming amount of trees. When DCNR saw a need to the trend around, it had to be about more than just putting trees in the ground.The department convened a variety of stakeholders to develop the approach for TreeVitalize. Citizen and local government engagement, capacity building and stewardship became major program themes. The exciting results have led the department to apply the TreeVitalize model in other areas of the state.

Willingboro, NJ is one of the three original Levittowns in America, and in the mid 90's was suffering from deterioration and economic loss that characterize the nation's 'First Ring' suburbs. Through a community-driven sustainability initiative, a Sustainable Master Plan has transformed Willingboro Plaza, a bankrupt, auto-centric, suburban, single-use project into a multi-purpose, diverse, secure and community-focused Town Center anchored by Willingboro Public Library. This accomplishment promises the best of possible sustainable futures within Greater Philadelphia.

Neighborhood Bike Works (NBW) turns disused bicycles into opportunities for Philadelphia's youths. NBW introduces young Philadelphians to the fun and freedom of cycling in the city, increasing self-sufficiency and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Community partnerships help expand NBW's reach and engage teachers, families and neighbors. Last year, NBW: Reclaimed 20 tons of bicycles; Put 800 refurbished bicycles back on the road; Taught 260 new youth safe bicycling and repair skills.