Cochrane High School’s (CHS) Sustainable Development Committee has been named a finalist in the 22nd Annual Emerald Awards for its work on the wind turbine project.
One of four nominees in the youth category – with 32 finalist overall in 11 categories – committee member Stephanie Bennett is excited about the school being acknowledged by the Alberta Emerald Foundation (AEF).
“The nomination recognizes the process that our young students have undergone with their proposal of a small wind turbine on the school grounds,” Bennett stated via email. “Amidst this debate, our students have learned the importance of research, dialogue and accountability.”
Whether the nomination would stand was at one point uncertain, however.
With the Town of Cochrane approving a motion to draft a land-use framework to guide renewable-energy projects, the CHS committee had to contact the AEF to ensure the nomination would continue.
Bennett said that on April 19 the committee received word that it would.
“The students have demonstrated incredible competency, resiliency and diplomacy with this project,” Bennett said. “I believe that that behavior deserves to be recognized.”
CHS’s Sustainable Development Committee nominated the students for the award, focusing on the process they have undergone so far with the wind turbine project.
The AEF bestows awards to youth, educators, corporations, not-for-profit groups, governments, community groups and individuals to recognize, celebrate and inspire environmental excellence.
An awards ceremony announcing the winners will be held June 6 at the Shoctor Theatre in Edmonton.
