ORLANDO, Fla. (March 6, 2017) – The Orange County Convention Center's new Center-to-Table gardens were named the Outstanding Sustainable Program winner earlier this month at the annual U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Central Florida region's LEEDership awards.

The gardens, located in the Westwood lobby, provide edible greens and fresh produce for Centerplate, the convention center's exclusive food service partner. The gardens include 81 towers, each with 44 planting spots. The 2,000-square-foot aeroponic structure was completed in May with a grand opening in October.

"This award reflects our commitment to delivering the highest quality experience to our attendees," said John Culver, the convention center's sustainability program manager.

This is the first year the Outstanding Sustainable Program award was given. Other award categories this year included the following: Outstanding USGBC Central Florida Member, Outstanding Community Leader, Outstanding Green Business, Outstanding LEED NC Project, Outstanding LEED CS Project, Outstanding LEED CI Project, Outstanding LEED EB Project, Outstanding LEED for Homes Project, and the Outstanding Sustainable Certified Project, which was also new.

"The annual LEEDership Awards recognize the thought-leaders, the do-ers, and the sustainability champions who move the ball forward with their innovative projects and efforts – making our region a healthier place to live, work, and play", said Kathy Lawson, the regional chair of the USGBC.

About the Orange County Convention Center
Celebrating more than 30 years of success, the Orange County Convention Center is the second largest convention facility in America. Each year the OCCC attracts more than 200 events to the Central Florida area. As a result, roughly 1.4 million attendees contribute approximately $2.1 billion to the area's economy each year. For more information about the Orange County Convention Center visit http://www.occc.net/.

About USGBC
The U.S. Green Building Council Florida chapter is a nonprofit, volunteer-governed organization that brings increased collaboration and coordination across the Sunshine State, allowing local supporters more time to focus on moving the needle, educating the masses, and implementing sustainability and green-building initiatives in local communities.

Media contacts:
Gwen Wilson, OCCC Marketing & Communications Manager
407-685-5796, gwen.wilson@occc.net

Caitlin Dineen, OCCC Communications Administrator
407-685-5831, caitlin.dineen@occc.net