ASML stands at the forefront of semiconductor technology as the leading supplier in lithography equipment, powering the production of the world’s most advanced computer chips. But its influence extends beyond innovation alone. ASML is also a sustainability leader, with a clear and ambitious vision for reducing its environmental impact across operations, supply chains, and product lifecycles.

Central to this vision is ASML's commitment to achieving greenhouse gas neutrality across all operations by 2040. This effort includes reducing energy consumption in manufacturing and buildings, switching to renewable energy sources such as wind and solar, and offsetting any remaining emissions. ASML is engineering more energy-efficient systems, with a focus on reducing the energy demands of its EUV light sources, which are the most power-intensive component of its technology.

ASML is also addressing commuting and business travel, encouraging more sustainable practices, and supporting behavioral shifts across its global workforce. Additionally, through recycling, reuse, and smart resource management, ASML is reducing its environmental footprint while increasing efficiency and circularity throughout its operations, reflecting a deep understanding that sustainability is not just a responsibility but a catalyst for long-term success.

By aligning technological advancement with climate goals, ASML is helping to shape a future where innovation and environmental stewardship move forward together.

Founded in 1996, the Norwalk River Watershed Association (NRWA) is a leading environmental non-profit dedicated to protecting and restoring the Norwalk River Watershed in southwestern Connecticut. Rooted in the belief that healthy ecosystems begin with engaged communities, NRWA works at the intersection of grassroots action and environmental advocacy. The association mobilizes volunteers to restore habitats and shape water policy, building a healthier, more resilient watershed.

Completely volunteer-led, NRWA has planted over 7,000 native trees and shrubs and removed nearly 10,000 pounds of litter from local rivers and green spaces. These hands-on efforts are not only transforming landscapes but also rebuilding the vital connections between people, wildlife, and the ecosystems they share. As a co-host of the Wild & Scenic Film Festival and an influential voice in statewide policy conversations around pesticide use and water protection, NRWA continues to leave its mark on our state, driving systemic change and empowering future generations.

What sets NRWA apart is its unwavering commitment to community-driven stewardship. Whether engaging hundreds of volunteers each year or advocating for science-based environmental policy, NRWA remains focused on one goal: reconnecting people to nature and ensuring the long-term health of the Norwalk River watershed.

For over two decades, Enfield Scuba and Watersports has served as a beacon for environmental education and marine conservation in Connecticut. As the state's largest scuba center, Enfield Scuba has led efforts to promote a clean Connecticut watershed while forming a strong, equity-based community program introducing thousands of individuals to the wonders of the underwater world. Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations, schools, and local agencies, its passionate team of instructors and conservation advocates offers hands-on training in water safety, marine biology, and environmental conservation.

Enfield Scuba and Watersports’ series of community-based, environmentally focused events, such as its "Dive Against Debris" lake cleanups, allows volunteers to develop their diving skills while helping the planet.

This past May, Enfield Scuba co-hosted a World Turtle Day celebration with Riverside Reptiles Conservation Zoo and The Turtle Room, spotlighting Connecticut’s endangered turtle species and raising critical funds for their protection. The event reflected the organization’s ongoing commitment to its “H2O Planet” ethos, which emphasizes that water is our planet’s most vital resource. 

With a mission grounded in conservation, education, and inclusion, Enfield Scuba and Watersports continues to shape the next generation of environmental stewards.

New Canaan native Chris Schipper is a standout environmental leader whose vision, dedication, and tireless advocacy over the last 15 years have left a lasting mark on the conservation landscape in his community. 

As the former president of the New Canaan Land Trust (NCLT), Chris led a transformative overhaul of the organization, shifting its focus from traditional preservation to modern conservation. He spearheaded landmark environmental projects, including the creation of public trails on NCLT land and the continued expansion of the Land Trust's network to 400-acres of protected open space. 

Under Chris' leadership, NCLT acquired the New Canaan Audubon Society’s 56-acres of bird sanctuaries and guided the stewardship of the land. He also secured funding to acquire land for the unique and much-heralded New Canaan Firefly Sanctuary.

In his current role as chair of the New Canaan Conservation Commission, Chris launched a water testing program on local rivers, engaging high school students in partnership with Save the Sound, to regularly monitor water quality. He also led a 5-year effort to revitalize the third oldest bird sanctuary in the nation - Bristow Park - and established a Public-Private Partnership with the Land Trust for ongoing stewardship.

Most recently, after a decade-long effort, the New Canaan Land Trust successfully acquired and permanently preserved the Grupes house and surrounding acreage, which borders the NCLT's Browne Preserve. This accomplishment would not have been possible without Chris’ steadfast leadership and determination.

Chris' work is grounded in the belief that connecting people to nature, especially young people, lays the foundation for a healthier, more sustainable future.

A senior at the Marine Science Magnet High School in Groton, Zoe Wu is an inspiring environmental champion whose leadership is already leaving a lasting mark on Connecticut's conservation efforts. Passionate, driven, and deeply committed to empowering her generation, Zoe leads educational efforts aimed at informing young people of the importance of conservation.

As director and secretary of the Alliance for the Mystic River Watershed, she launched a Youth Council to engage her peers in environmental action through hikes, paddleboarding events, and hands-on legislative advocacy. Zoe co-founded her school’s Environmental Club and developed the "Game of Floods," an interactive learning experience that helps students visualize how climate change affects local water systems. She also brings science to life through outdoor marsh education as a leader in the Mystic River Scientist program. 

Zoe co-organized the 2025 Southeastern Connecticut Youth Climate Summit and has shared her vision for a more sustainable future as a panelist at the Groton Earth Day Expo. She plans to study Environmental Psychology and Social Justice at the University of Connecticut, where she hopes to continue blending science, storytelling, and youth leadership to safeguard Connecticut's waters and ecosystems for future generations.