Since the program began, five honorees have been selected each year. However, to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Awards, in 2009 we honor the late Senator Heinz’s long-standing commitment to the environment by celebrating a diverse group of 10 individuals whose achievements have helped bring about a cleaner, greener and more sustainable planet.
At this unique time in history, when the environment is even more important than ever to our lives, our economy, our national security and our future, it is only fitting that we focus on this singular and critical topic. These awards celebrate those guardians of our future who value the importance of our natural resources, who work to remove toxic chemicals from our air and water, who are concerned about the health of all of our citizens, and who are creating the policies and the technology that will ensure a sustainable planet for future generations.
The 15th annual Heinz Awards honor those who are working in unique and innovative ways to address the intersection of the environment with one of the other Heinz Awards’ categories recognized in previous years: Arts and Humanities, Human Condition, Public Policy, and Technology, the Economy and Employment.