Deadline: 31-Mar-2026
EE 30 Under 30 recognizes young leaders (age 30 or younger by March 31, 2026) who are advancing sustainability through environmental education worldwide. The program honors individuals using education to drive environmental action, civic engagement, and community resilience. Selected leaders join a global alumni network supported by the North American Association for Environmental Education and the Global Environmental Education Partnership.
What Is EE 30 Under 30?
EE 30 Under 30 is a global recognition program celebrating young professionals who are building a more sustainable future through environmental education.
Launched in 2016, the initiative highlights innovative leaders working across sectors, disciplines, and geographic regions to address sustainability challenges.
The program is administered by the North American Association for Environmental Education and supported by the Global Environmental Education Partnership.
Since its inception, the program has recognized 301 individuals from 57 countries.
Program Purpose and Vision
The EE 30 Under 30 program aims to:
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Elevate diverse voices in environmental education
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Recognize leadership through action and innovation
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Strengthen the global environmental movement
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Promote inclusive, community-responsive education
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Support civic engagement and sustainable development
Environmental education in this context refers to using education as a tool to:
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Address climate change and sustainability issues
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Foster environmentally responsible behavior
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Strengthen community resilience
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Encourage civic participation
The program recognizes that leadership can occur at local, national, or global levels and does not require a formal leadership title.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for nomination, individuals must meet all the following criteria:
Age Requirement
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Must be 30 years old or younger as of March 31, 2026
Geographic Eligibility
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Open to nominees from anywhere in the world
Professional Criteria
Nominees must:
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Be actively using environmental education to address sustainability challenges
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Demonstrate leadership through action, innovation, and community engagement
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Contribute to environmental education in formal or informal settings
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Work across sectors such as schools, NGOs, government, business, research, or community organizations
Individuals over age 30 may nominate someone else, but they cannot nominate themselves if they exceed the age limit.
What Types of Leadership Are Recognized?
The program recognizes leaders who:
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Operate at local to global scales
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Work across disciplines (education, science, policy, advocacy, community development)
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Engage diverse communities
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Strengthen the environmental movement
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Promote equity, inclusivity, and civic responsibility
Leadership may include:
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Community-based environmental programs
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Youth engagement initiatives
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Climate education campaigns
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Policy advocacy through education
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Sustainability training programs
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Environmental literacy efforts
Formal job titles are not required. Impact and initiative matter more than position.
Application and Nomination Requirements
All nominations must be submitted in English. However, English language ability is not part of the evaluation criteria.
Each nominee must provide:
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A completed nomination form
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A short introduction video (maximum 90 seconds)
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A letter of support
Important: Applicants are strongly encouraged to use their own words in the nomination materials. AI-generated videos will not be considered.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Ensure the nominee meets the age and leadership criteria as of March 31, 2026.
Step 2: Prepare the Nomination Materials
Gather:
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Personal and professional details
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Description of leadership and impact
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Letter of support from a colleague, mentor, or community member
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A 90-second introduction video
Step 3: Create the Introduction Video
The video should:
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Introduce the nominee
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Highlight their work and impact
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Explain how they use environmental education to advance sustainability
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Be authentic and personally created (AI-generated videos are not accepted)
Step 4: Submit the Nomination in English
Complete the full application carefully and submit before the deadline.
Step 5: Attend the Applicant Webinar (Optional but Recommended)
An informational webinar will be held on March 10 at 10:00 AM U.S. Eastern Time to provide:
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Application guidance
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Tips for a strong nomination
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Program insights
Why EE 30 Under 30 Matters
Recognizes Emerging Global Leaders
Young professionals often drive innovation in environmental education and sustainability.
Builds a Global Network
Honorees join an active alumni network of environmental education leaders from around the world.
Amplifies Diverse Perspectives
The program intentionally highlights individuals from varied cultural, professional, and geographic backgrounds.
Strengthens the Environmental Movement
By celebrating leadership, the program reinforces environmental education as a critical tool for sustainable development.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Submitting AI-generated videos
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Missing the 90-second video requirement
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Providing a weak or generic letter of support
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Failing to clearly explain environmental education impact
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Overlooking eligibility deadlines
Strong nominations clearly demonstrate measurable impact, community engagement, and leadership initiative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can be nominated?
Anyone 30 years old or younger as of March 31, 2026, who is actively advancing sustainability through environmental education.
2. Can someone over 30 apply?
No. Individuals over 30 cannot be nominees, but they may nominate an eligible candidate.
3. Is the program limited to North America?
No. The program is open globally.
4. Is English fluency required?
No. Applications must be submitted in English, but English language ability is not part of the judging criteria.
5. Is a leadership title required?
No. Leadership is demonstrated through action and impact, not formal titles.
6. Is a video mandatory?
Yes. A short introduction video of no more than 90 seconds is required.
7. What happens after selection?
Selected leaders join a global alumni network and gain international recognition for their work.
Conclusion
EE 30 Under 30 celebrates young changemakers who are using environmental education to build a more sustainable and civically engaged world. By recognizing diverse leaders across sectors and regions, the program strengthens the global environmental movement and empowers the next generation of sustainability professionals.
Eligible young leaders worldwide are encouraged to submit thoughtful, authentic nominations that clearly demonstrate impact, leadership, and commitment to environmental education.
For more information, visit NAAEE.