Sustainability is a big word with a broad meaning. Too often, people use it — and overuse it — to appear environmentally friendly. They'll talk about having a salad made from local greens or riding their bikes to work but still order fast food or drive gas-guzzling SUVs. What will make these wannabes drop the façade and get real about going green in Charlotte?

Shannon Binns, founder of Sustain Charlotte, hopes a shindig will do the trick. Saturday evening, the nonprofit's First Annual Community Sustainability Awards recognized 70 Charlotteans who are keeping the city green. Twelve people from that esteemed group received awards in categories including air quality, food and social equity. About 200 attended the event, which was sponsored by Wells Fargo & Co., UNC Charlotte and Packard Place, among others. Tickets were open to students, nonprofits and the organization's members and nonmembers.  READ MORE