Sustainability Symposium a Success

Approximately 150 executives, academics and students gathered on campus Nov. 1 for the Beard Institute’s sixth annual Beard Symposium, titled 100 Years of Sustainability. Speakers included sustainability thought leaders William McDonough and Andrew Winston, who delivered keynote speeches on pending business challenges and opportunities.

During the symposium, the Beard Institute presented its 2012 Green to Gold award to Procter & Gamble. The annual award recognizes an American company that demonstrates commercial success in sustainable business practices.

Additionally, the University’s Center for Green Industries and Sustainable Business Growth presented its inaugural PA Sustainable Small Business Award to ReAxis Inc., an environmentally friendly chemical manufacturer in Washington County. The center also presented a Sustainability Champion Award to the Green Building Alliance for its contributions to preserving the local environment while promoting business friendly, sustainable practices that benefit companies and communities.