DANE COUNTY – Dane County Executive Melissa Agard today announced the recipients of two 2025 Climate Champion awards, recognizing local businesses that are leading by example in sustainability and climate action. The awards were presented last week as part of the County’s Earth Day celebration through the Climate Champions program, an initiative of the Dane County Climate Action Plan.
“Earth Day is a time to recognize that climate action happens not just at the global level, but right here in our communities,” said County Executive Agard. “These businesses are showing what leadership looks like in Dane County. They are reducing emissions, conserving resources, and proving that sustainability and economic success can go hand in hand.”
The Climate Champions program highlights organizations that are taking measurable steps to reduce their environmental impact across categories such as waste, water, and transportation.
Midwest Solar Power was recognized as a 3 Star 2025 Climate Champion for Waste Diversion Practices, achieving a waste diversion rate of over 60 percent and implementing waste avoidance tracking. The company was also recognized for its Water Saving Practices, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability across multiple operational areas.
Manufacturing and distributing products requires significant energy and natural resources, making efficiency efforts especially impactful. By reducing waste sent to landfills or incinerators through recycling, composting, and reuse, Midwest Solar Power is lowering its carbon footprint while also improving operational efficiency. As a company already rooted in renewable energy, its Climate Champion achievements reinforce that sustainability is central to its mission.
Machinery Row Bicycles was recognized as a 3 Star 2025 Climate Champion for Employee Commuting, far exceeding program requirements by offering a wide range of incentives and amenities to support sustainable transportation. These include facilitating carpooling, providing emergency rides, offering covered bike storage, and supporting employee access to bicycles.
While approximately 73 percent of Dane County residents drive alone to work, only about 34 percent of Machinery Row employees do the same. Seventeen of the company’s 26 employees’ bike to work, demonstrating how workplace culture and support can significantly reduce emissions. In addition to lowering environmental impact, these efforts contribute to improved employee health and cleaner air across the community.
“From reducing waste to rethinking how we get to work, these Climate Champions are helping move Dane County forward,” Agard added. “Their leadership shows that practical, local solutions can make a real difference in addressing climate change.”
The Climate Champions program is part of Dane County’s broader efforts to achieve its climate goals and support a more sustainable, resilient future.
For more information about the Climate Champions program, visit daneclimateaction.org.
