WASHINGTON, D.C. -- An innovative carbon footprint reduction program featuring Bellevue's conservation mascot, the Carbon Yeti, has earned the city an Clean Air Excellence Award from the Environmental Protection Agency.

Launched by the Utilities Department in 2008, the Carbon Yeti program has been expanded to raise awareness about climate change, motivate residents to reduce their individual "carbon footprints" and measure the resulting carbon emissions reduction in the community.

So far, residents from 880 households have sent in pledge cards, representing future reductions of over 9,000 tons of carbon dioxide, or equal to the annual greenhouse gas emissions of 1,563 passenger vehicles.

In an announcement made today in Washington, D.C., the EPA honored Carbon Yeti and 11 other programs across the U.S. that protect people's health and create cleaner air.

Carbon Yeti is expected to reach a wide audience, including students, parents, general public, and the business community. Action steps include: waste reduction/recycling, pollution prevention, water conservation, natural yard care and energy conservation. Carbon Yeti also offers branded giveaways,  trading cards, a Facebook page and an interactive Carbon Yeti House with embedded games. 

EPA's Clean Air Excellence Awards

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