2018 Champions of the Earth

Seven Champions of the Earth laureates were announced in 2018.

Cochin International Airport

Entrepreneurial Vision
Cochin International Airport is the world’s first solar power airport. Its entire operations are powered by solar energy. The biggest and busiest airport of Kerala state in India,…

Emmanuel Macron

Policy Leadership
President of France, Emmanuel Macron has put climate action at the top of his foreign agenda. He is recognized for championing the International Solar Alliance and promoting intern…

Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat

Science and Innovation
Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat are joint winners of the Champions of the Earth Award, in the Science and Innovation category. They produce a sustainable alternative to beef burge…

Joan Carling

Lifetime Achievement
Joan Carling has been defending land and environmental rights of indigenous peoples for more than 20 years. She actively participated in the UN Framework Convention on Climate Chan…

Narendra Modi

Policy Leadership
UN Environment Programme has recognized Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his bold environmental leadership on the global stage. Under Modi’s leadership, India pled…

Zhejiang

Inspiration and Action
Zhejiang province derives its name from the Zhe River, meaning “crooked” or “bent” river. The rivers of Zhejiang Province have long been vital for communities, flowing through anci…

Award Categories

Lifetime Achievement

Policy Leadership

Inspiration and Action

Science and Innovation

Entrepreneurial Vision
All Laureates
Laureates by Category
Laureates by Year

The Champions of the Earth award, the UN’s highest environmental honour, recognizes outstanding leaders from government, civil society and the private sector whose actions have a transformative impact on the environment.

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