Every year, UNEP honours individuals and organizations working on innovative and sustainable solutions to address the triple planetary crisis: climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, and pollution and waste.
This year, the Champions of the Earth award runs from 2 to 30 April 2025. The award spotlights outstanding climate action, with a focus on solutions related to methane, buildings and construction, sustainable cooling (including energy efficiency), clean air, and forests.
Champions of the Earth are recognized in four categories:
- Policy Leadership
- Inspiration and Action
- Entrepreneurial Vision
- Science and Innovation
Established in 2005, the Champions of the Earth award is the UN’s highest environmental honour. Over the past 20 years, UNEP has recognized 122 laureates, including 28 world leaders, 74 individuals, and 20 organizations.