Deadline: 15-Apr-2026
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is accepting nominations for the 2026 Champions of the Earth Award, the UN’s highest environmental honor. The award recognizes leaders and organizations implementing impactful solutions to protect and restore the world’s oceans, focusing on pollution prevention, ecosystem restoration, sustainable blue economies, and science-driven cooperation.
Overview of the Award
The Champions of the Earth Award, established over two decades ago, honors individuals, governments, and organizations whose environmental initiatives influence global policy and practice. The 2026 edition focuses on ocean protection, recognizing leaders delivering practical solutions for marine and coastal ecosystem restoration, climate risk reduction, and sustainable livelihoods.
Key Focus Areas
The 2026 Champions of the Earth Award targets four main areas:
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Pollution Prevention: Addressing pollution from source to sea, including wastewater, nutrients, chemicals, and sediments, through solutions linking land, freshwater, coasts, and oceans.
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Ecosystem Protection and Restoration: Strengthening ocean resilience, safeguarding and restoring coral reefs, mangroves, seagrasses, and other vital habitats while reducing climate risks for coastal communities.
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Sustainable Blue Economies: Promoting fair and sustainable livelihoods, protecting marine nature, and supporting economic opportunities in coastal and ocean-dependent communities.
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Science, Data, and Cooperation: Expanding research, data sharing, financing, and regional partnerships, including Regional Seas Conventions and Action Plans, to enhance collective environmental action.
Why the Award Matters
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The ocean covers over 70 percent of the Earth’s surface, absorbs more than 90 percent of excess heat from greenhouse gas emissions, and sequesters about one-third of human-produced CO₂.
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Marine ecosystems support a global blue economy valued at over US$1.5 trillion and sustain the livelihoods, cultures, and food systems of millions of people worldwide.
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Marine habitats are under threat from pollution, habitat loss, sediment runoff, and untreated wastewater, impacting biodiversity and coastal communities.
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Only 15 percent of the world’s coastlines remain ecologically intact, and fragmented governance and limited data require coordinated global action.
Eligibility and Nomination Process
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Nominations are open to individuals, governments, and organizations implementing ocean protection initiatives.
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Nominated candidates should demonstrate measurable impact in restoring marine and coastal ecosystems, reducing climate-related risks, or promoting sustainable livelihoods.
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Submissions are evaluated based on innovation, scalability, environmental impact, and alignment with UNDP sustainability goals.
Expected Impact
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Highlight successful initiatives for ocean restoration and marine biodiversity conservation.
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Support practical solutions that reduce climate and environmental risks for coastal communities.
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Encourage sustainable blue economy practices that balance environmental protection with economic development.
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Promote global cooperation through data sharing, regional partnerships, and evidence-based decision-making.
FAQ – Champions of the Earth 2026
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Who can be nominated? Individuals, governments, and organizations with impactful ocean protection initiatives.
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What are the award focus areas? Pollution prevention, ecosystem restoration, sustainable blue economies, and science-driven cooperation.
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Why focus on oceans? Oceans cover 70% of the Earth, regulate climate, sequester carbon, and support biodiversity and livelihoods.
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What are the key eligibility criteria? Demonstrated measurable impact, innovation, scalability, and contribution to environmental sustainability.
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How are nominees evaluated? By effectiveness in restoring ecosystems, protecting communities, advancing sustainable practices, and fostering cooperation.
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What is the global significance? Protecting oceans preserves biodiversity, strengthens climate resilience, and sustains livelihoods for millions worldwide.
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Who organizes the award? The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) under the Champions of the Earth initiative.
Conclusion
The 2026 Champions of the Earth Award recognizes leaders at the forefront of ocean protection and sustainable marine development. By highlighting innovative and impactful initiatives, the award advances global efforts to restore marine ecosystems, reduce climate-related risks, and promote sustainable livelihoods, ensuring the ocean remains a vital and resilient ecosystem for future generations.
For more information, visit UNEP.