The cement industry is actively engaged and committed to
sustainable development-a philosophy that focuses on meeting today's
construction needs without depleting future resources. Nominations are now
closed for the 2007-2008 Portland Cement Association (PCA) Sustainable
Leadership Awards, established by the organization as part of its ongoing
commitment to sustainability.
"With an expected U.S. population increase of 63 million by the year 2030,
and the resulting increased demand for housing, buildings and roads, it is
critical that we balance our economic interests with our environmental
priorities," said PCA President/CEO Brian McCarthy. "The nominations
received for this year's Sustainability Leadership Awards highlight not
only some spectacular projects that make innovative use of cement and
concrete, but also the importance of sustainability in the policies and
building projects in communities, cities and states throughout our nation."
PCA looked to its members and members of the construction industry at large
to nominate public officials who have demonstrated through policy or
projects a passion for the three tiers of sustainability-economic
responsibility, environmental responsibility and social responsibility. The
Leadership in Sustainability Policy Award will honor public officials who
advance policies that promote the concept of sustainable development by
advocating for and promoting the use of concrete and cement-based products
in their communities. Additionally three award categories honor specific
projects in the areas of: Homes and Residential Building, Non-Residential
Building and Infrastructure.
"Concrete and cement-based products provide substantial environmental
benefits throughout a project's life cycle-including during construction
and occupancy, and once it has reached the end of a useful life," said
David Shepherd, AIA, director of sustainable development for PCA. "This
Award will go far in building greater awareness of the importance of cement
and concrete to sustainable development, especially among the officials
responsible for our infrastructure and public buildings."
Nominations for awards were received from across the country, from Chicago
to Los Angeles and New York to Dallas. Nominations will be reviewed by a
panel of judges including PCA staff experts and cement and concrete
industry leaders. Winners will be notified on August 5, 2008.
For more information on cement and sustainable development, please visit Sustainable Development.
