On April 16, environmentalist celebrities were honored at the Natural Resources Defense Council‘s 12th annual Forces for Nature gala. Held at Chelsea Piers on New York City, the event was green the entire way through, featuring an organic menu following the 100 mile diet, local wine from Duckwalk Vineyards and even flowers potted in re-usable containers. Graydon Carter, editor of Vanity Fair — the magazine which started the “green issue” trend — emceed the evening, honoring Grammy winner Sheryl Crow.
“NRDC’s annual Forces for Nature Award celebrates the accomplishments of individuals that have shown remarkable personal leadership in the environmental arena,” said NRDC President Frances Beinecke in a press release. “We hope that by drawing attention to the hard work of people like Sheryl Crow and Shelly and Tony Malkin we can illustrate not only what is possible, but also inspire future generations of musicians, artists and business leaders to embrace both success and sustainability as they build their careers.”
The aforementioned Malkins (on the left of Lyle Lovett, at left) were recognized for their tireless efforts in sustainability. Shelly, a member of NRDC’s Board of Trustees, uses art as a connection to nature. Her husband led the Empire State Building to become a national example of energy efficiency.
“We are so grateful to our friends and business associates who have joined us in supporting the work and successes of the NRDC,” the Malkins said. “We are privileged to have been honored by this organization, the staff which makes it work, and the board which guides it.”
Sheryl Crow was awarded for her eco-friendly clothing line Bootheel Trading Co., her 2008 tour with NRDC trustee and An Inconvenient Truth producer Laurie David that advocated an end to global warming and her personal adoption of renewable energy at home and on the road.
“I am deeply honored to accept this recognition and am proud to be part of an organization that helps protect our health and the environment,” said Sheryl Crow. “The work done by the NRDC, in my estimation, is the most important work of all and the umbrella under which all other causes fall.”
The night ended with a performance by Lovett who was joined on stage by singer/actress Gloria Reuben (right). Then, volunteers and staff put any leftover food in Chelsea Pier’s organic composting machine and the floral centerpieces were replanted in gardens.
An evening of environmental awareness, indeed.
Photos courtesy of Anthony Clark/NRDC.
