Ripple Awards
The Orange County RIPPLE award honors individuals, businesses, and community groups who are helping the environment. This includes community members taking action on climate change, protecting nature, and promoting sustainability. The goal is to recognize and celebrate outstanding efforts that are making a meaningful impact within Orange County.
Award Program Purpose Statement
The Orange County RIPPLE Awards hope to promote and advance climate action, sustainability, and environmental stewardship within the County by recognizing and celebrating the outstanding efforts of individuals, businesses, and community groups who are making a meaningful impact in environmental protection or sustainability. Through this award program, Orange County aims to inspire innovation, elevate best practices, and foster a culture of environmental responsibility that supports the goals outlined in the County’s Climate Action Plan and Strategic Plan.
Qualifications and Eligibility Requirements
Applicants/Organization must reside, work, or attend school in Orange County.
Elected officials and Commission for the Environment (CFE) members are ineligible while they are in public office.
Award Categories
Community Environmental Excellence Award
Celebrating a community group or nonprofit organization that demonstrates exceptional leadership, innovation, and sustainable action for environmental betterment.
Environmental Leadership in Government Award
Honoring a government employee, program, or team demonstrating outstanding environmental impact, innovation, sustainability, and/or leadership in public service.
Individual Environmental Impact Award
Acknowledging a neighbor, educator, or community member whose personal actions have meaningfully contributed to environmental improvement and awareness.
Next Generation Environmental Leadership Award (for individuals ages 12-25)
Recognizing youth or emerging leaders whose creativity, innovation, and passion are shaping a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future.
Sustainable Business Impact Award
Recognizing a business or enterprise that advances environmental sustainability through innovative practices, measurable impact, and long-term community or ecological benefit.
Scoring
The four scoring criteria listed below help us evaluate how well each nominee protects the environment, uses creative solutions, creates long-lasting benefits, and inspires others to take action. Nominees can earn up to three points in each category based on the strength and impact of their work.
1. Environmental Impact (0-3 Points)
The applicant demonstrates measurable, meaningful positive impact on the environment and the community. Actions contribute to the protection, restoration, or improvement of natural ecosystems, and are adaptable or replicable by others.
2. Innovation and Creativity (0-3 Points)
The applicant applies original, creative thinking to address environmental challenges. Their work reflects new methods, novel ideas, or creative engagement strategies that inspire others or drive change.
3. Sustainability and Long-Term Benefit (0-3 Points)
The applicant’s efforts support long-lasting ecological, social, or economic outcomes. Their actions show potential for enduring positive impact within Orange County or beyond.
4. Leadership and Influence (0-3 Points)
The applicant demonstrates strong leadership and a commitment to involving others in environmental efforts. They engage, inspire, and mobilize individuals, organizations, or communities to take action, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and collaboration.
Submit a Nomination.
Nominations are due February 1, 2026 at 5 pm.