Champions of the Earth

​The Champions of the Earth award, established by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in 2005, is the UN's highest environmental honor. It recognizes individuals and organizations whose transformative actions address the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Awardees are celebrated in four categories: Policy Leadership, Inspiration and Action, Entrepreneurial Vision, and Science and Innovation. Nominations for the Champions of the Earth award are open to everyone and typically occur annually. The selection process involves UNEP staff and subject experts reviewing nominations from around the world. The criteria for selection include the impact of the nominee's actions, the novelty of their approach, and the influence of their work in inspiring others. The nomination period for the 2024 award was from April 15 to May 5, 2025.