South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce honors eco-innovators and advocates at the prestigious event
The South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (SFLHCC) and the SFLHCC Foundation proudly hosted their Annual Sustainability & Green Visionary Awards Luncheon at the elegant Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables. The event, themed “Green Future: Building a Sustainable Tomorrow, Today!,” spotlighted outstanding efforts in sustainability and green innovation within the community.
Event highlights and discussions
The SFLHCC luncheon featured a stimulating panel discussion moderated by Ana Cuervo, a four-time Emmy Award-winning journalist. The discussion included influential figures such as Miami-Dade County Commissioner Raquel Regalado and Amir Hafzalla, President of the South Region at Reworld. The panel explored significant advancements in sustainability practices and highlighted successful eco-friendly initiatives.
The event showcased a range of impactful sustainability practices. Topics covered included:
- Decarbonizing the Cement Industry: Utilizing plastic and carbon rejects to produce sustainable fuels.
- Energy Efficiency Systems: Reducing greenhouse gas emissions from ships.
- Waste Management: Handling textiles and materials responsibly to prevent landfill accumulation.
- Electric Vehicle Incentives: Encouraging the use of electric vehicles through innovative approaches.
- Sneaker Recycling: Generating micro-business opportunities through sneaker recycling initiatives.
These practices represent just a fraction of the progressive efforts being made to foster a more sustainable future.
The luncheon featured a diverse group of speakers and panelists who shared their expertise and experiences:
- Raquel Regalado: Miami-Dade County Commissioner for District 7.
- Ana Cuervo: Emmy Award-winning journalist and panel moderator.
- Irela Bague: Director of Governments and Water Resilience at Black & Veatch, serving as the Q&A moderator.
- Amir Hafzalla: President of the South Region at Reworld.
- Richard Pruitt: Vice President of Environmental Operations at Carnival Cruise Line.
- David Landsberg: President & CEO of Goodwill South Florida.
- Artealia Guilliard: Head of Sustainability Communications & Advocacy at Ford Motor Company.
- Moe Hachem: Chief Executive Officer at Sneaker Impact.
Green Visionary Awards ceremony
The highlight of the event was the Green Visionary Awards ceremony, recognizing seven individuals for their exceptional contributions to environmental sustainability:
- Raquel Regalado: Miami-Dade County Commissioner for District 7.
- David Landsberg: President & CEO of Goodwill South Florida.
- Dr. Mireya Mayor: Executive Director of Strategic Events at FIU.
- Keely Weyker: Director of Engagement & Outreach at the Everglades Foundation.
- Nicole Gomez: Vice President of Post Collections at Waste Pro USA.
- Mike Fernandez: VP of Post Collections at Waste Pro USA.
- John R. Medina & Associates: Architects at Miami Curtain Wall Consultants.
These honorees were celebrated for their leadership and innovative approaches to environmental challenges.
Attendees were encouraged to bring unwanted sneakers for recycling, reflecting the event’s commitment to promoting everyday sustainable practices. The focus on practical actions and community involvement was a core element of the luncheon, highlighting the importance of collective effort in achieving sustainability goals.
The event was well-attended by notable figures and community leaders, including SFLHCC Chairman Jose Perez de Corcho and SFLHCC President Liliam M. Lopez, distinguished Guest Award Recipient Peter Yeo, Senior Vice President at the United Nations Foundation, and various green award recipients who were individuals recognized for their contributions to sustainability.
The SFLHCC Annual Sustainability & Green Visionary Awards Luncheon was a testament to the growing commitment to environmental stewardship in South Florida. The event not only honored those making significant strides in sustainability but also inspired continued efforts towards a greener future.
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