Justin Timberlake, the man who brought sexy back, has been honoured as an environmental leader by the EMA.  The Environmental Media Association (EMA) has announced that Timberlake is the recipient of the “Futures Award,” sharing good company with past recipients Edward Norton, Rosario Dawson and popular band Maroon 5.  Timberlake is known obviously for his music and acting career but also for his incredible eco-friendly golf course in Tennessee. Timberlake said, “My two loves are golf and the environment.”

Before we get back to JT, it’s important to understand the role of the Environmental Media Association (EMA). “The Environmental Media Association believes that through television, film and music, the entertainment community has the power to influence the environmental awareness of millions of people. This initial concept set the stage for our 1989 launch and it remains a core EMA tenant today. EMA mobilizes the entertainment industry in educating people about environmental issues, which in turn, inspires them to take action.  A pioneer in linking the power of celebrity to environmental awareness, it was EMA who invented the ‘green carpet,’ launching the concept of taking a hybrid or alternative fuel vehicle – not a limo – to high profile awards events and bringing the concept of alternative automotive technology to millions of previously unaware households.”

EMA President Debbie Levin called Timberlake “a great example of how you can lend your voice for positive change.”

Now let’s explore some of the ‘greens’ at Timberlake’s eco-friendly golf course.  Mirimichi golf course,  located in Tennessee, has numerous green features and here’s the top five directly from their website:

1. Audubon International Classic Sanctuary
   The Mirimichi team partnered with Audubon International and consulted with Audubon Environmental so that the renovation of the golf facilities would implement sustainable resource management principles that incorporate wildlife conservation, habitat rehabilitation and enhancement, water conservation and water quality protection. Audubon International (AI) certification requires a yearly audit to ensure Mirimichi continues to implement these natural resource management principles long term.
2. GEO Certified
   Mirimichi is one of the first ten courses world-wide to be recognized as GEO Certified from the Golf Environmental Organization (GEO). This prestigious designation recognizes our commitment to environmental sustainability by protecting and enhancing ecosystems and biodiversity, maximizing resource efficiency, reducing waste, and conserving cultural heritage and landscapes. We adhere to the promise of continual improvement, and regularly monitor and review environmental performance indicators to ensure progress.
3. Future Clubhouse
   Mirimichi’s future clubhouse will be designed and constructed to meet the highest green building and performance measures. These measures will substantially reduce water and energy consumption, protect indoor air quality and occupant health, and use sustainable building materials that include local and recycled materials, as well as reduce the amount of construction waste diverted to area landfills.
4. Buffers, Littoral Shelves, Wildlife Habitat Enhancement
   Along with conversion of turfgrass to grassland habitat, buffers and littoral shelves (shelves planted with aquatic vegetation along banks) have been added to on-site streams and ponds. Buffers and shelves protect water quality and provide safe, easy access to water resources for wildlife.
5. Natural Resource Management Center (NRMC)
   The NRMC, or maintenance facility for Mirimichi, is the building in which pieces of equipment are serviced, and pesticides, fuel, fertilizer, and cleaning solvents are stored. The building has been designed to reduce the potential for spills and prevent pollution of soil, surface water, or ground water.

This isn’t JT’s first award for good deeds.  The 24th annual Nickelodeon Kids Choice Awards gave the“Big Help Award” to Justin Timberlake for his efforts on behalf of the Shriners Hospital for Children.  Justin Timberlake’s annual Shriners Hospitals for Children Open is a PGA golf tournament that’s dedicated to raising money and awareness for the organization.  Justin Timberlake is a great ambassador for kids and the environment and remarkably, he’s leveraging his notoriety for good and not just fame and fortune.
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