Environmental conservation awards program.

The Department of Education and the Department of Environmental Protection shall, in coordination with representatives of the business community, the environmental community, and the energy community, develop a program to provide awards or recognition for outstanding efforts or achievements concerning conservation, reductions in energy and water use, green cleaning solutions, green pest management, recycling efforts, and curriculum development that is consistent with efforts that enhance the quality of education while preserving the environment. Entities that are eligible for such an award or recognition include students, classes, teachers, schools, or district school boards. The Legislature encourages the Department of Education and the Department of Environmental Protection to form partnerships with the private sector to help fund the program.