South Bend accepts sustainability award

The City of South Bend received the Bicentennial Green Legacy Community award on Thursday from Sustainable Indiana 2016. 

Mayor Pete Buttigieg accepted the award presented by project coordinator John Gibson and executive director of Indiana Bicentennial Commission Perry Hammock at the Green Ribbon Commission meeting. 

"This recognition by Sustainable Indiana 2016 is a great honor. This distinction is well-deserved for those in the community that work tirelessly to build the economic vitality, social equity, and environmental quality that safeguard South Bend’s future generations,” said Buttigieg.

The city was recognized for a decade of sustainability efforts including the installation of hydro and solar power and converting city fleets to alternative fuels. 

The city says the award also recognizes innovations of the city’s academics, businesses, transportation, and non-profit organizations. 

“South Bend is committed to a thriving, sustainable community,” said Therese Dorau, director of the South Bend Office of Sustainability. 

According to the city, a separate award was given in July, recognizing several South Bend-area organizations and businesses for sustainability efforts.