2024 Champions of Sustainability Winners

Announcing the 2024 Champions of Sustainability Contest Winners!

Thank you to all staff and students for participating in NJNG’s Champions of Sustainability Contest. This year’s project submissions were outstanding – each supporting sustainable school communities and facilities and energy conservation. We look forward to seeing new proposals in 2025!

Congratulations to this year’s winners.

The first place Green Team Champion Award of $2,500 went to Veterans Memorial Middle School, Brick Township. The school submitted a project plan to purchase raised garden beds and fit them with enclosed greenhouse kits. In addition, they plan to add a greenhouse in the school’s courtyard. The produce from this garden will be donated to Seeds of Service in Brick.

The second place Silver Award of $1,500 went to the Marine Academy of Science and Technology (MAST), Highlands. This student-led proposal tackles the environmental issues of textile waste and microplastics through the campus thrift store Thriftwood. As part of their plan, MAST students will host workshops to teach sewing and embroidery skills to help reuse, recycle and repair donated clothing. During lunch periods, students and teachers can stop in to shop and learn more!

The third place Bronze Award of $1,000 went to the Township of Ocean Intermediate School. Inspired by a student, the school’s project plan will create an indoor friendship garden featuring Buddy Benches, hydroponic grow towers, a living wall and cart filled with gardening supplies. Students can plant their own seeds in the winter and transfer to their outdoor school garden in the spring. The Buddy Benches will be used by the students to read, play games and put puzzles together.