About

Young Champions of the Earth

With Young Champions of the Earth – the UN’s most prestigious prize for environmental action by young people – UNEP is looking for young changemakers with pathbreaking ideas and solutions that showcase nature’s potential in addressing the triple planetary crisis.

The climate crisis, biodiversity and nature loss and increasing pollution and waste levels are threatening the existence of natural ecosystems and societies. Young visionaries are needed who see beyond these crises and have the courage to invent the future by carving their place in a new and greener society. 

Young people are bearing the brunt of rising inequality and unemployment. They require better access to networks and capital, a seat at the table of environmental decision-making, and tailored mentoring and training. 

In 2024, young people – selected from every global region – will be named Young Champions of the Earth. These winners receive seed funding, intensive training and tailored mentoring to bring their big environmental ideas to life. UNEP is looking for young artists, scientists, economists, communicators and entrepreneurs from all walks of life who have big, bold ideas – for the environment, for humanity and for a greener future.