For Immediate Release
Contact: John Majercak, Center for EcoTechnology President, 413-586-7350 x228
Al Blake Earns Center for EcoTechnology’s Environmental Leadership Award
Al Blake Receives 2022 Alan Silverstein and Laura Dubester Award for Community Environmental Leadership
Pittsfield, MA – Al Blake of Becket has received the 2022 Alan Silverstein and Laura Dubester Award for Community Environmental Leadership from the Center for EcoTechnology (CET). The award is named after Silverstein and Dubester, who served as co-directors of CET for decades until they retired in 2010. Dubester joined CET in 1977 and Silverstein in 1978. They became co-directors of the organization in 1988. Silverstein passed away in 2014. Blake started the NAACP Berkshire Branch Climate/Environmental Justice Committee.
“We need our grassroots leaders which Al exemplifies,” said award namesake Laura Dubester. “A positive vision, combined with lots of education to bring people along, patience and initiative are a few of Al’s leadership qualities.”
The award is given by CET to a local citizen or group who is working in their community to benefit the local environment with a focus on reducing the harmful impacts that humans can have on the environment, and the positive steps that people can take at home, work, and in their communities that help protect the environment, improve quality of life, and build community.
“Al Blake is a true community leader who has been working to raise awareness and encourage people to take positive actions to protect our environment, at the local level and beyond,” said CET President John Majercak. “We believe the best way to honor Alan and Laura’s work is to recognize the work and commitment of other remarkable people like Al.”
Blake has an impressive track record of community, environmental stewardship. He helped start the 350Mass – Berkshires chapter which continued for eight years. The chapter was part of the 350 Massachusetts for a Better Future Project, a member-led network of climate activists. He is also a member of the 350Mass State-wide Legislative Team. Blake was also the founded the Becket Energy Committee in 2016 which he chaired for six years. Additionally, Blake facilitated a local annual Energy Forum as well as meetings and forums with Berkshire Legislators to advance climate awareness and legislation.
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For more than 45 years, the Center for EcoTechnology has helped people and businesses save energy and reduce waste.
For more information visit centerforecotechnology.org.
