Built Green Canada has launched its inaugural Maverick Awards to recognize trailblazers in sustainability.

The awards program is a tribute to the founders and leaders – mavericks – of the organization, who see things differently and who were the early adopters of sustainable building.

This program offers three exclusive awards; develops assets for winners; and occurs primarily online.

The three award categories reflect Built Green’s foundations:

• The Innovation Award recognizes creative ways sustainable building is happening and progressing industry. It’s in this spirit that Built Green’s programs were originally developed and continue to evolve.
• The Transformational Award recognizes the impact sustainability practices can have in driving real change. These achievements embody Built Green’s mission.
• And the Ambassador Award recognizes those on the ground, encouraging and promoting sustainable building. It speaks to Built Green’s origins in industry engagement and the value of word of mouth.

To celebrate winners and to elevate excellence in sustainable building, the Maverick Awards program will create assets for winners’ use, including professional short-form videos and feature articles, which Built Green Canada will share through its virtual communities, networks, and campaigns. Promotional activity will be staggered to enable a longer campaign, encouraging ongoing engagement, and increasing the frequency winners’ content is seen and shared—ultimately, expanding the audience reach beyond the confines of an in-person event.

As part of Built Green’s membership requirements, builders are required to be part of a professional association. Examples include Canadian Home Builders’ Associations, Urban Development Institute, Victoria Residential Builders Association, Infill Development in Edmonton Association, construction, environmental, etc. Through their awards programs, these associations do great work to highlight industry achievement over comprehensive award categories—Built Green recognizes this important role filled by these valued industry associations, who provide in-person events.

The Maverick Awards are open for submissions now through February 15, 2024.