Green Umbrella honors sustainability leaders ahead of Friday’s summit

Source: Movers and Makers

Before hundreds of business, government and community leaders gather in Sharonville to discuss the future of climate action, Green Umbrella recognized some of the people and organizations already helping shape it.

Ahead of Friday’s 13th annual Midwest Regional Sustainability Summit, the regional climate collaborative announced the recipients of its 2026 Sustainability Awards. They honor leadership in areas ranging from climate research and public policy to community resilience and workforce development.

This year’s trophies are going to four individuals, one organization and one municipality whose work has advanced sustainability efforts across Greater Cincinnati, Ohio and beyond.

Recognizing regional impact

Together, the awards recipients reflect the wide range of approaches shaping sustainability efforts across the region, from scientific research and local government leadership to grassroots community initiatives and innovative business models.

Three people received Sustainability Leadership Awards.

• Dr. Nzingha Dalila, a clinical counselor, educator and community leader, was recognized for her efforts to strengthen climate mental health initiatives and community resilience in Greater Cincinnati.
• Joe Flarida, executive director of Power a Clean Future Ohio, earned the honor for helping communities across the state collaborate on local climate action and sustainability initiatives.
• Dr. Amy Townsend-Small is a professor in the University of Cincinnati’s School of Environment and Sustainability and UNESCO Water & Climate Change Chair. Her research has advanced climate science, methane emissions monitoring and energy policy.

Green Umbrella also selected Brewster Rhoads for its Sustainability Achievement Award. It recognizes his lifetime of contributions to environmental leadership, civic engagement and community-building throughout Greater Cincinnati and the Ohio River region.

The City of Forest Park will receive the Sustainability Impact Award for demonstrating how local governments can pair environmental progress with economic accessibility, resident engagement and long-term community resilience.

The Sustainability Innovation Award went to Scrap2Home, a local nonprofit that gives discarded wood a second life as furniture for families in need. Its work also creates opportunities for workforce development and reduces material waste.

Spotlighting climate solutions

Green Umbrella will present the awards during the Midwest Regional Sustainability Summit at the Sharonville Convention Center.

The annual gathering is expected to draw more than 650 business, government, nonprofit and community leaders from across the Midwest. This year’s theme, “Adapt Today, Thrive Tomorrow,” will guide discussions on climate resilience, clean energy, workforce development and other sustainability challenges. The event will feature nearly 100 speakers, 45 exhibitors, an electric vehicle showcase, an art exhibition and keynote presentations from anthropologist Rebecca Carte and other sustainability leaders.

The summit serves as the centerpiece of Cincinnati Climate Week, a regionwide series of more than 50 events running June 8-14. From solar tours and film screenings to beekeeping workshops and sustainability festivals, the week highlights local efforts to address environmental challenges and build more resilient communities.

Green Umbrella coordinates climate and sustainability initiatives across Greater Cincinnati, bringing together businesses, governments, nonprofits and residents to advance regional climate goals.

More information about Green Umbrella and Climate Week are available online.