Hilton Head, SC earns Audubon Green Community Award

Hilton Head, SC – The Town of Hilton Head Island has earned the Audubon Green Community Award from Audubon International, a non-profit environmental organization.

“As the first community to receive the Audubon International Green Community Award in the State of South Carolina, Hilton Head has demonstrated a strong commitment to embodying the ideals of sustainability – economic vitality, environmental protection, and social responsibility,” says Suzi Van Etten, Manager of the Sustainable Communities Program. “With the surrounding natural landscape of this barrier island, Hilton Head has much to celebrate. It is a unique destination filled with residents that care deeply about the place they call home.” 

“The Town of Hilton Head Island is pleased to announce its participation in the first stage of Audubon International’s Sustainable Communities Program is complete and is happy to receive the Green Community designation,” states Mayor Drew Laughlin. “This acknowledgement from Audubon International will aid in the promotion of our continued efforts to place environmental sustainability in the forefront of Town initiatives. For many years Hilton Head Island has been known for its great natural beauty and for innovative, environmentally sensitive practices. This achievement recognizes the Town’s commitment and strides taken toward creating a sustainable environment.”

As a community, Hilton Head has the power to drive sustainability. By purchasing community products locally, Hilton Head is contributes to local economy. Several local organizations are also working to plant community gardens throughout the Town, and private communities are doing their part to promote space for gardening and native plant use. 

Hilton Head Island has adopted many Low Impact Design and Smart Growth Standards, as well as a Land Acquisition Program to preserve open space and natural resources. Residents are actively taking part in programs to reduce waste, curb pollution, and improve their health through healthy lifestyle choices.