Green Industry Redlands’ Johnston Center Hosts Green Industry Hall of Fame & Future Forum
The International Green Industry Hall of Fame (IGIHOF) recently celebrated its annual Induction Ceremony at the University of Redlands in Redlands, California. This momentous event honored nine new inductees who have made remarkable contributions to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Held in conjunction with the Green Future Forum, the ceremony brought together a diverse group of students, academicians, and sustainability professionals for a day of networking, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration.
The Green Future Forum, co-produced by the University of Redlands’ Johnston Center for Integrative Studies and IGIHOF board members, served as an opportunity for students to engage directly with industry pioneers and thought leaders. This immersive experience allowed attendees to explore pressing sustainability challenges, exchange innovative ideas, and develop strategies for a more eco-conscious future. The event emphasized the importance of intergenerational dialogue, ensuring that students—the next generation of environmental leaders—could interact with professionals shaping the sustainability landscape today.
A highlight of the event was an insightful presentation by IGIHOF inductee Tom Bowman, President of Bowman Change and co-author of Empowering Climate Action in the United States. Bowman’s presentation underscored the urgency of climate action and the transformative role that businesses, policymakers, and communities can play in addressing environmental challenges. His speech set an inspiring tone for the awards ceremony, reinforcing the critical importance of sustainability leadership.
Honoring Excellence in Sustainability
This year’s inductees represented a diverse range of organizations dedicated to advancing sustainability across various industries. The distinguished honorees included:
- Blink Charging – A leader in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, providing innovative and accessible solutions to support the transition to cleaner transportation.
- Climate Resolve – A nonprofit organization dedicated to developing climate resilience strategies and advancing policies that mitigate the effects of climate change.
- Entomo Farms – A pioneer in alternative protein sources, specializing in sustainable insect-based food production to address global food security and environmental impact.
- Esri – A global leader in geographic information system (GIS) technology, providing tools for mapping and spatial analysis that support environmental conservation and sustainability planning.
- Flor de Caña – A premium rum producer recognized for its commitment to carbon-neutral and sustainably sourced production methods.
- The Green Business Lab – An educational initiative that equips students and professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to integrate sustainability into business operations.
- Image 4 – A company specializing in sustainable brand experiences and eco-friendly marketing solutions that help businesses reduce their environmental footprint.
- The Sustainability Laboratory – A research and innovation center focused on developing groundbreaking approaches to sustainability challenges across multiple disciplines.
- Winston Eco-Strategies – A consulting firm dedicated to helping organizations implement sustainable business practices and achieve environmental goals.
In addition to these outstanding organizations, IGIHOF also presented a special recognition to its founder and former Board Chair, Sam Geil. His induction into the Hall of Fame was a tribute to his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to promoting ecological sustainability worldwide. Geil’s efforts have played a pivotal role in shaping IGIHOF’s mission and impact, making him a fitting honoree in this prestigious lineup.
The Impact of IGIHOF’s Work
Since its establishment, IGIHOF has been committed to recognizing and celebrating excellence in sustainability. By honoring individuals and organizations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to environmental responsibility, the Hall of Fame aims to inspire others to follow suit and adopt greener practices. The organization’s reach extends beyond awards and recognition, fostering meaningful collaborations, promoting knowledge exchange, and advocating for policies that drive sustainable progress.
IGIHOF’s annual induction ceremonies serve as more than just an opportunity to honor exemplary achievements. They create a platform for thought-provoking discussions, industry insights, and strategic networking. This year’s event was no exception, with attendees engaging in dynamic conversations about sustainable business models, climate resilience, and innovative technologies that are shaping the future of environmental stewardship.
A Valuable Partnership with the Johnston Center
The collaboration between IGIHOF and the University of Redlands’ Johnston Center for Integrative Studies added an enriching educational dimension to the event. The Johnston Center is renowned for its commitment to self-directed, experiential learning, and the Green Future Forum aligned seamlessly with its philosophy. The partnership facilitated an engaging experience where students could participate in meaningful conversations with sustainability leaders, gaining firsthand insights into real-world applications of environmental principles.
Tim Seiber, Director of the Johnston Center, emphasized the significance of this engagement: “Creating opportunities for deep conversations with so many exceptional business leaders is invaluable to students. The connections they made support Johnston’s approach to engaged, self-directed learning.”
For students aspiring to careers in sustainability, the event provided unparalleled exposure to industry best practices and innovative solutions. By interacting with IGIHOF inductees, they were able to explore career pathways, expand their professional networks, and gain inspiration for their future contributions to the field.
