Champions and Young Champions of the Earth 2020: Message from the Secretary-General

The UN Secretary-General António Guterres shares his message of support for the 2020 Champions of the Earth, the UN’s highest environmental honour, and Young Champions of the Earth, UNEP's forward looking prize.

The Champions were chosen for their transformative impact on the environment and their leadership in urging bold and decisive action on behalf of the planet and its inhabitants. The awards celebrate inspirational and motivational examples of the potential of individual and collective action to change the world.

Together, they Act #FORNATURE.

VIDEO TRANSCRIPT:

"In the middle of a global pandemic, with societies struggling, economies stretched to their limits and an escalating biodiversity and climate crisis, we need to act boldly and urgently to repair our relationship with nature and take the path of sustainable development.

The Champions and Young Champions of the Earth inspire and mobilize.

Each year, the United Nations honours these environmental champions for their leadership and vision. They see promise in the peril of our times as they take on some of our greatest challenges. They are political leaders, innovators, artists, scientists, entrepreneurs and defenders of the environment.

Their efforts confront the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution.

I commend this year’s Champions of the Earth. Their efforts to face down adversity affirm that we can protect and restore our environment for the good of all people and the planet." - UN Secretary-General António Guterres