Young Champions of the Earth

Invent the future

Are you a change-maker, rain-maker, ground-breaker? Do you see opportunity where others see crisis? Do you want to change the world? Young Champions of the Earth aims to celebrate and support individuals aged between 18 and 30 who have outstanding potential to create a positive environmental impact.

Lead a new wave

Global warming is forcing our societies, our economies and our world to change. Our ways of doing business, our careers and our job opportunities need to change, too.

With this change comes an unprecedented opportunity for brave entrepreneurs and trend-setting role models to take action, to carve their place in a new and greener economy, to pioneer revolutionary technology and radical innovations, and to lead a new wave of green careers.

We’re searching for you!

In 2020, seven 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. We’re looking for artists, scientists, economists, communicators and entrepreneurs from all walks of life who have big, bold ideas – for the environment, for humanity, for a greener future.

Whose big idea will change the world? 

Shortlisted finalists from every region will be selected following an open call for applications. A Global Jury will then choose seven winners. Each winner is expected to implement their big idea and keep UNEP updated on their progress by producing videos and blogs that we will share on our website. Winners will also be given funding to support their communication efforts throughout the year, so that they can produce high-quality materials to share with our audiences.

Download the Young Champions of the Earth information brochure

What do the Young Champions of the Earth receive?

The prize

In 2020, seven Young Champions of the Earth will be selected from each global region: Africa, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, North America, West Asia and two from Asia and the Pacific. Each winner will receive:

• US$15,000 in seed funding
• US$9,000 to communicate and capture your idea and document and broadcast the stories of hope and change that you’re catalyzing on the ground
• Attendance at a high-level UN meeting
• An introduction to dignitaries at the Champions of the Earth award ceremony
• Publicity and recognition through interviews and online and global media
• Access to a community of experts offering insights and mentoring
• Participation in an entrepreneurial training program

The 2020 Young Champions of the Earth will be required to share their journeys through videos and blogs on this website for up to one year.

The community

More than just an honorary title, the Young Champions of the Earth prize aims to nurture the next generation of environmental leaders. Applicants who demonstrate a strong willingness to learn will be granted access to mentoring and skill-building opportunities and to a community of like-minded entrepreneurs and experts.