Two Red Deer groups have been recognized for their work to address environmental challenges and build a more resilient and sustainable future.
Ten Peaks Innovation Alliance and the Foundation for Red Deer Public Schools' passive solar greenhouse project have been shortlisted for the 34th annual Emerald Awards.
The Alberta Emerald Foundation unveiled the shortlist for the 34th Annual Emerald Awards on Friday, March 21. This year featured 72 nominations, which is the highest number received since 2014.
This record-setting number of nominations is a testament to Alberta’s unwavering commitment to environmental excellence. We continue to see innovation, collaboration, and passion driving positive change across our province,” said Marisa Orfei, Alberta Emerald Foundation executive director.
“We are incredibly proud to provide a platform where diverse environmental leaders—whether from rural communities, Indigenous groups, non-profits, or industry—can come together and be celebrated.”
The 34th Annual Emerald Awards ceremony will take place on June 5, 2025, at 5:30 PM at the Timms Centre for the Arts in Edmonton. The event will also be live-streamed via the Alberta Emerald Foundation’s YouTube channel, ensuring accessibility to audiences across the province.
Emerald Award recipients will each receive a $1,500 grant to further their environmental work, a custom trophy, and a featured segment in the Emerald Documentary Series highlighting their contributions.
The Foundation for Red Deer Public Schools' passive solar greenhouse project is shortlisted in the Education category.
"The Come Grow With Us Passive Solar Greenhouse Project is transforming education in Red Deer by giving students hands-on experience in sustainable food production, energy-efficient building design, and environmental stewardship," describes a writeup on the Alberta Emerald Foundation's website.
"Located in a high-need community, the project provides fresh produce for school food programs and local families, helping to combat food insecurity while promoting healthy eating habits. The space also serves as a mental health support area, offering students a calming environment where nature-based learning improves well-being."
Ten Peaks Innovation Alliance is shortlisted in the Public Engagement and Outreach category.
"The Ten Peaks Innovation Alliance is transforming the way Alberta’s youth engage with innovation, energy, climate, and sustainability. Through annual conferences, case competitions, and hands-on summer camps, Ten Peaks provides students with real-world insights into clean technology, digital transformation, and environmental entrepreneurship, preparing them to be the next generation of sustainability leaders," states the Alberta Emerald Foundation website.
"Since its inception in 2021, Ten Peaks has educated over 4,000 students and teachers across Alberta, offering a platform where youth can interact directly with industry leaders, Indigenous knowledge keepers, academics, and entrepreneurs. The initiative fills a crucial gap in Alberta’s curriculum by introducing students to energy transition technologies, nature-based solutions, and cutting-edge sustainability practices that are shaping the future of the province."
For more information, visit www.emeraldfoundation.ca.
