The Metro Atlanta Chamber announced the winners of the 2016 Atlanta E3 Awards during a breakfast event at the Ritz-Carlton Atlanta. This is the fourth year that MAC has recognized companies, organizations, and individuals for outstanding achievement in advancing clean tech and best-in-class sustainability practices in the marketplace. The Atlanta E3 Awards promotes synergies between economic development and the environment, which is an attractive benefit for local residents, as well as those looking to relocate to the metro region.

Three previously announced finalists in seven categories, as well as many of the city's business and community leaders, were on hand for the announcement. The 21 finalists and seven awardees were chosen from a highly competitive pool of applicants. The entries were carefully vetted and judged by an independent selection committee.

"The E3 Awards are our opportunity to shine a spotlight on the companies, organizations and individuals who are working to enhance a clean and sustainable environment, which inevitably leads to business growth. MAC has an interest in promoting these individual efforts because they are directly impacting our region's quality of life, economic development, and livability," said Dave Williams, vice president of infrastructure and government affairs at the Metro Atlanta Chamber.

2016 E3 Awards Winners

Category: New Venture
Startup, small business, or new business venture that advances sustainability through business solutions

• CHaRM – Live Thrive

Category: Moving the Needle
Companies or projects that reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, increase fleet efficiency, or achieve other transportation benefits for Metro Atlanta

• Atlanta BeltLine, Inc.

Category: Liquid Assets
Companies or projects that make a difference in our sustainable water future

• Ostara Nutrient Recovery Process - Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources

Category: Community Strong
Non-profit or university program that promotes collaboration and community involvement in making Metro Atlanta more sustainable

• Grants to Green – Southface

Category: Clean Tech Innovations
Companies or projects that are creating sustainable solutions in any clean tech sector (renewable energy, recycling, materials)

• The Atlanta Journal-Constitution – Cox Enterprises

Category: Built Environment
Achievement in efficient building design, smart growth, or urban planning

• Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System Master Plan

Category: Trident Award
Recognizing visionary leaders advancing sustainability in Atlanta

• Bill Strang, TOTO USA, Inc.