This award is selected and conferred by the Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). It recognises decades of consistent action on behalf of the planet and its inhabitants. The legacy of the laureates in this award is one of determined action. They share the knowledge that we can solve the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution with effective action.

UNEP coordinates and hosts the annual Champions of the Earth awards. UNEP’s reputation as the global, non-partisan authority on environmental issues is built from 50 years of ground-breaking, science-based research that leads and informs global environmental policy.

Since its inception in 2005, the annual Champions of the Earth award has brought visibility and validation to some of the world’s most dynamic environmental leaders, from pioneering scientists and captains of industry to heads of state and community activists. They are inspirational and motivational examples of the potential of individual and collective action to change the world.