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Indian Nations Council of Governments Receives EPA Clean Air Excellence Award

Release Date: 4/7/2005
Contact Information: For more information contact the Office of External Affairs at (214) 665-2200.

     Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognized Tulsa's Indian Nations Council of Governments (INCOG) as a Clean Air Excellence Award winner.  INCOG designed an educational program to improve air quality in the region by introducing Tulsa high school students to carpooling, alternative transportation sources, and "green vehicles."

     "I applaud INCOG for its leadership in reducing air pollution," EPA Regional Administrator Richard E. Greene said.  "INCOG's program demonstrates our national resolve for cleaner air and a healthier America."

     During 2003 and 2004, INCOG staff conducted one-hour air pollution reduction education classes in the Tulsa area high schools and hosted two six-week carpool competitions among the area high school driver education programs. During the carpool competition, students were challenged to carpool, bike, walk, or ride the bus to school to reduce vehicle miles traveled and improve air quality in the area.

     The school that earned the highest participation rate was awarded a new Toyota Prius Electric Hybrid for its driver's education program and $40,000 in rebates for the purchase of EPA designated "Green Vehicles." The classes educated 600 new drivers about ways to reduce air pollution. This innovative approach can be easily replicated in any community. While the program primarily targets high school students, the message reaches parents and teachers as well.

     The Clean Air Excellence Awards program, now in its fifth year, annually recognizes individuals and organizations that take innovation risks, are pioneers in their fields and have improved air quality.  Their programs are replicable and sustainable.  

     More information about the Clean Air Excellence Award program and other winners is available at https://www.epa.gov/air/caaac/clean_award.html. An audio clip is available at https://www.epa.gov/earth1r6/6xa/radio.htm.