San Francisco commission renames environmental service award for Johanna Wald

The San Francisco Commission on the Environment voted unanimously Sept. 26 to rename its annual Environmental Service Award the Johanna Wald Environmental Service Award, in recognition of Wald's more than two decades of service.

Commissioner Sullivan moved the measure, which received a second and passed on a roll-call vote with all commissioners present voting aye. Commissioners and former colleagues described Wald as a longtime leader on climate and land‑use issues and praised her policy acumen and mentorship of staff.

Wald thanked the commission and city staff, saying she was “really touched” by the honor and expressed gratitude to the mayors who had appointed her over the years and to department staff who aided her work.

The renaming carries symbolic significance for the commission and will appear on future award materials. No additional administrative changes or funding were reported in connection with the renaming; it was presented as an honorary recognition.