PA Environmental Council Hosts Western PA Environmental Awards May 6 In Pittsburgh, Meet The Honorees

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council will host the 2026 Western PA Environmental Awards on May 6 at the Hyatt Regency Pittsburgh International Airport.

The annual awards ceremony gathers friends, partners, and local leaders in Pittsburgh to celebrate the impressive work being done to turn western Pennsylvania into a better place to live for everyone.

Honorees

-- The Pittsburgh International Airport will be honored with the 2026 Sustainability Leadership Award for its industry-leading emphasis on decarbonization and environmental impact. 

From on-site microgrid and renewable energy installations to the recently completed terminal modernization project, PIT has set the regional standard for efficiency, resiliency, and responsible development. 

Future plans for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and clean hydrogen production facilities will take the airport — and the region — to new heights. 

-- The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail (LHHT) will be recognized with the 2026 Trailblazer Award. 

Through the contributions of dedicated partners including DCNR, the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation, Ridge Runners, Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, and others, the LHHT embodies the spirit of collaboration that PEC values in its work. 

Presented in celebration of its 50th anniversary, this recognition will highlight the 70-mile trail’s role in the regional landscape, honor the people and organizations that brought it to life, and acknowledge those responsible for ensuring its lasting legacy for generations to come.

-- Laurel Caverns, Pennsylvania’s newest state park is the focus of the 2026 Conservation Leadership Award, recognizing David and Lillian Cale for their gift of the 435-acre Laurel Caverns property in Fayette County. 

An important geological site and bat habitat, Laurel Caverns is believed to be the largest cave system in the northeastern U.S. 

The property has been in the Cale family since the 1930s and has welcomed visitors from all over the world since 1969. 

With the transfer of ownership this year, it becomes Pennsylvania’s first underground state park.

Click Here for tickets and more information on this special event.

For more information on programs, initiatives and special events, visit the PA Environmental Council website, visit the PEC Blog, PEC Bill/Regulation Tracker, follow PEC on Twitter or Like PEC on Facebook.  Visit PEC’s Audio Room for the latest podcasts.  Click Here to receive regular updates from PEC.

[Posted: April 3, 2026]  PA Environment Digest