| Is your Kansas City neighborhood working to be more sustainable with recycling, energy efficiency, repurposing of vacant lots, gardening or other Earth-friendly projects? The city of Kansas City, MO is calling for nominations for its KC Green Neighborhood Recognition Program. As part of the city’s KC Green initiative, this program recognizes neighborhoods that have implemented sustainable practices. Registered neighborhoods can apply online through July 31. The city will award neighborhoods with a platinum, gold or silver designation based on the green/sustainable initiatives they have implemented. Winners will be announced in the fall. Neighborhoods selected for recognition will receive neighborhood signage; acknowledgment in city publications, on the city’s cable channel KCCG-TV2 and on the city’s social media networks; access to various workshops; and an eco-gift to help neighborhoods continue their progress. This year, the program offers a streamlined application process and LED lights as a new eco-gift option. Past award winners implemented such green practices as home energy-efficiency improvements, farmer’s markets and home farm stands, rain gardens, litter pickup programs, curbside glass recycling, compost pickup, community gardens and urban orchards. Some projects repurposed vacant lots with edible landscapes, play areas and community gathering places. “It is important to recognize the neighborhoods in this community going above and beyond to incorporate sustainability into their everyday lives,” said Dennis Murphey, KCMO chief environmental officer. Neighborhoods can find more information at the KC Green Neighborhood Recognition Program or email [email protected] or call Lara Isch, Kansas City water quality educator, at 816-513-0582. | 
