Stephen Ashkin, president of The Ashkin Group and frequently referred to as "the father of Green Cleaning," was inducted into the International Green Industry Hall of Fame (IGIHOF) at a recent ceremony held at the University of California, Santa Barbara.

This is the fifth year the IGIHOF has held this annual event. The organization asks the general public to nominate individuals and organizations that have embraced Green technologies, have reduced waste, have promoted sustainability, or are actively working to promote Green and sustainability issues, either in their own operations or for people and organizations around the world. 

The IGIHOF considers these nominees and inductees to be "creators of excellence and visionaries" who have made significant contributions to ensure a healthier and more sustainable planet. Past nominees have included Google, Seventh Generation, Toyota Motor Corporation, and the San Francisco Giants.

A review board examines the credentials of the nominees from which it selects the inductees. Along with Ashkin, this year's inductees include the following:

David Gottfried, founder of the U.S. Green Building Council

Amory Lovins, founder of the Rocky Mountain Institute

Honda Motor Company

Meryl Streep, actress

"The lineup of people and organizations inducted this year is as diverse as it is impressive," says Ashkin. "It's an honor to be among them and an even greater honor to be inducted into this fine organization."

Sam Geil, Executive Director of the IGIHOF, shared the following thoughts and feelings about why Ashkin was nominated and inducted: "It's no wonder Steve is considered 'the father of Green Cleaning.' He inspired me and many others to get on the Green bandwagon more than a decade ago. His contribution to Green and sustainable issues has encouraged thousands of people and scores of industries to Go Green."