From grassroots champions and corporate leaders to political pioneers and research institutions, UNEP celebrates Champions taking bold action for our world.
Established in 2005, the Champions of the Earth award is the UN's highest environmental honour.
Every year, UNEP honours individuals and organizations working on innovative and sustainable solutions. Champions transform our economies, innovate, lead political change, fight environmental injustice, and defend our natural resources.
The 2025 cycle of the Champions of the Earth nominations is open from 2–30 April. The 2025 award spotlights outstanding climate action focusing on solutions on methane, buildings and construction, sustainable cooling including energy efficiency, clean air, and forests.
Champions of the Earth are celebrated in four categories:
- Policy leadership - Individuals influencing or advancing global, regional or national action through policy interventions to improve environmental outcomes. They shape the dialogue, drive commitments, and act for the good of the planet.
- Inspiration and action - Leaders taking bold steps to inspire positive change to protect our world. They lead by example, challenge behavior and inspire millions.
- Entrepreneurial vision - Visionaries challenging the status quo to build a cleaner future. They build systems, create new technology and spearhead a groundbreaking vision.
- Science and innovation -Trailblazers pushing the boundaries of technology for profound environmental benefit. They invent possibilities for a more sustainable world.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Champions of the Earth awards; since its inception in 2005, UNEP has recognized 122 laureates, including 28 world leaders, 74 individuals and 20 organizations.
