See which Charlotte-area agencies and businesses were awarded for advancing sustainability
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — UNC Charlotte, a north Mecklenburg town and a transportation safety advocate were among the winners in the 2025 Sustain Charlotte Awards.
The awards honor individuals, businesses, nonprofits, government agencies, and projects that are advancing sustainability and equity throughout the Charlotte region.
'This year's winners exemplify bold leadership, innovative thinking, and a deep commitment to advancing sustainable practices, reducing environmental impact, and inspiring positive change in their communities,' the organization said.
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Here are the honorees:
Inspiring Large Business Award: Freshlist is a Charlotte-based food hub connecting local farmers to restaurants, consumers and food-insecure communities. The company utilizes regenerative agriculture, food waste reduction and economic empowerment with the goal of strengthening the local food system.
Inspiring Building Project Award: What was once an abandoned shopping center in northeast Charlotte is now a net-zero energy-ready beacon of sustainability and community renewal. The Scarborough Center was created by Gensler, which partnered with Charlotte architecture firm Neighboring Concepts and collaborated closely with Mecklenburg County. Sustain Charlotte says this Eastway neighborhood project is a model of how climate solutions and social equity go hand in hand.
Inspiring Government Agency Award: A small-but-mighty leader in sustainability, Davidson is making progress toward carbon neutrality by 2050 through a comprehensive Climate Action Plan.
'With a focus on renewable energy, transportation, conservation and public engagement, the town is driving bold climate solutions for the region.'
Inspiring Small Business Award: This locally rooted company diverted nearly 250,000 pounds of waste from landfills in 2023 through donations, recycling, and resale.
'By prioritizing the circular economy, supporting local businesses, and donating a portion of profits to charity, Trash & Stash exemplifies how business can be a force for environmental and social good.'
Inspiring Nonprofit Award: With a bold 10-year Sustainability Master Plan and leadership across research, operations, and community partnerships, the university is advancing climate resilience, zero waste, and sustainable transportation. The university's Building Environmental Services team and Charlotte Heat Mappers initiative further highlight its deep and multifaceted sustainability impact.
Inspiring Individual Awards: Holmes was a visionary urban planner and advocate for equitable transportation and environmental justice in east Charlotte. He died in December at the age of 29.
'His legacy continues to inspire grassroots action and inclusive urban development.'
is a devoted community leader who has championed clean air, renewable energy and food justice.
'Her work bridges environmental advocacy and racial equity, empowering her community through education and activism.'
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Young Sustainability Leader Award: As the driving force behind Kellys' Community Kitchen, Liam has revolutionized food recovery, increased donations while reducing waste and water usage. His data-driven, people-centered approach is setting a new model for sustainable food justice.
Recycling Excellence Award: Zeke Tallant A tireless recycling advocate who leads by example. Through volunteerism, workplace leadership, and public education, Zeke is creating a cleaner, more informed community committed to waste reduction.
'These awardees are not only making incredible progress toward sustainability—they're doing it in ways that center equity, inclusion, and innovation,' said Shannon Binns, founder and executive director of Sustain Charlotte. 'Each of them represents the best of what Charlotte has to offer as we work together to build a more livable city for current and future generations.'
For more information about the Sustain Charlotte Awards or to learn how to get involved in local sustainability efforts, visit www.sustaincharlotte.org.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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