Celebrating 15 Years of Impact with Sustainable Waterloo Region
On May 8, Sustainable Waterloo Region (SWR) while celebrating 15 transformative years of sustainability leadership across our community. Held at the elegant DoubleTree by Hilton, this year’s Evening of Recognition was more than a celebration, it was a heartfelt tribute to the journey we’ve taken together, the achievements we’ve shared, and the innovative path ahead.
Grounding the Evening in Community and Culture
The night began with an inspiring Welcome and Smudging Ceremony led by Clarence Cachagee of Crow Shield Lodge, grounding us in gratitude and intention. This beautiful moment reminded us of our responsibility to the land, each other, and future generations.
Reflecting on 2024: The Impact That Mattered
We shared a look back at the meaningful work accomplished in 2024:
- Countless community events, microforest planting initiatives, and collaborative programs with local partners
- EVOLV1 updates showing solar generation data, an encouraging snapshot of output versus consumption
- Highlights of “15 Givebacks for 15 Years”, a campaign that brought impactful benefits to our community and environment
2025 SWR Awards: Celebrating Excellence
The heart of the evening pulsed with recognition for our change-makers. We honored organizations and individuals that set new benchmarks in sustainability:
| Award | Recipient |
| Rookie of the Year | Ayr Farmers Mutual Insurance Company |
| Green Team of the Year | MTE Consultants |
| Greatest GHG Reduction | Conrad Grebel University College |
| Sustainability Breakthrough | Circular Innovation Council |
| Partnership of the Year | Explore Waterloo Region |
| Roots and Shoots | Waterloo Region District School Board |
| Partner of the Year | Grand Valley Construction Association |
Each award represents tireless commitment, bold thinking, and authentic leadership.
What’s Ahead: Bold Innovations for 2025
We ended the evening by unveiling three forward-focused initiatives:
- Organics – SWR’s new Organics Diversion Program designed to simplify food rescue and cut down greenhouse gas emissions from organic waste
- EcoMagic SuperTool – Our powerful new AI assistant to help organizations decode and elevate their sustainability journeys
- Frameworks – A new building innovation exchange to foster smarter, healthier, and more efficient structures across the region
These aren’t just goals, they’re our commitments to shaping a net-positive future.
Gratitude for Our Community
A warm thank you to our Alumni and Impact Network members whose contributions over the years have shaped our collective success.
Event Sponsors
We’re endlessly grateful to our event sponsors who made the evening special:
- Enova – Sustainability Leaders Reception
- Greentec – Technology Partner
- Davidson Environmental – Organics Diversion & GreenWall sponsor
- SunLife, Kitchener Utilities, TD – 2025 Season Sponsors
- Colour Paradise – Live plant décor
- Livescape – GreenWall
- Chris Mulligan – Live music
- Crosby VW – Electric vehicle
- London Bicycle Café – Bike displays
- Wood Rescue – Custom awards
- Bikeep – Smart bike parking demo
- Isaac Ayala – Art exhibit that captured the spirit of sustainability
As we reflect on this incredible evening, one truth stands out: sustainability is a journey we take together. Thank you for being part of it, for your partnership, your passion, and your vision.
Here’s to the next 15 years 💚