Applications for the Young Champions of the Earth awards are now open

The Young Champions of the Earth program, led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), is a prominent initiative that engages young individuals who have remarkable ideas to safeguard and rejuvenate the environment.

In the upcoming year of 2024, one Young Champion will be chosen from each major global region: Africa, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, North America, West Asia, and two from Asia and the Pacific. The selected winners will benefit from mentorship, workshops to enhance their skills, and access to a network of UN experts. They will also have the opportunity to meet dignitaries at the award ceremony, gain publicity through interviews and global media, and receive US$20,000 in seed-funding.

The 2024 Young Champions of the Earth will be expected to document their experiences through videos and blogs on the program’s website for a period of up to one year. Eligible applicants must have a minimum of 6 months of experience working on a significant environmental project and be between the ages of 18 and 30 by December 31, 2024.

The program’s community goes beyond just a title, aiming to cultivate the future leaders in environmental conservation. Those who show a strong desire to learn will have access to mentoring, skill development opportunities, and a network of like-minded individuals and experts.

If you are passionate about making a positive impact on the environment and have a clear vision for the future of our planet, consider applying to become a Young Champion of the Earth!

Eligibility and restrictions – Young Champions of the Earth program

In order to qualify for participation in the Young Champions of the Earth competition (hereinafter referred to as “the Competition”), candidates must fall within the age range of 18 to 30.

Moreover, each candidate must possess a minimum of six months of previous experience working on their environmental initiative.

Individuals who have previously submitted applications in past cycles of the Competition are permitted to reapply. However, only one submission is accepted per individual per year.

Employees of CoalitionWILD, any other partners of the Competition, the United Nations Environment Programme (hereinafter referred to as “UNEP”), and the immediate family members of said employees are not eligible to take part in the Competition, whether as candidates or sponsors. The term “immediate family” of these employees includes spouses, siblings, parents, children, grandparents, and grandchildren, whether through marriage, adoption, cohabitation, or other family ties, as well as any other individuals residing in the same household as these employees, regardless of their relation.

What constitutes a Young Champion of the Earth?

The state of our environment is currently under immense pressure, and the signs of this can be seen everywhere. It is evident in the quality of the air we breathe, the food we consume, and the water we drink. It is present in our soils, rivers, oceans, and atmosphere. Many consider this to be the most significant challenge of our era.

The question then arises: What actions are you taking to address this issue? In today’s world, it is crucial for those of us who care about the natural world to step forward and make a difference. Whether you are an activist, educator, innovator, or artist, we need individuals like you to challenge the existing norms and fight for the well-being of our planet and its inhabitants.

If you possess a powerful idea to safeguard or restore the environment, if you have a proven track record of initiating change, if you are unafraid of failure, and if you hold a strong belief in a promising future for our planet, then you may just have what it takes to become a Young Champion of the Earth.

Selection Criteria: Young Champions of the Earth program

During the initial phase of the selection process, a panel of United Nations experts will evaluate all applications based on the following criteria:

The 3 Ps – The potential positive impact that your significant idea could have on the environment (planet), society (people), and its financial feasibility (prosperity).
The 3 Cs – Evidence demonstrating that you possess curiosity, courage, and a vibrant personality.
Demonstrated commitment – It is crucial that you have already made efforts to implement your significant idea for a minimum of six months and can provide details of your accomplishments and progress thus far.
Endorsement – The strength of recommendation from your referee.

Application for Young Champions of the Earth program

To submit your application, please utilize the application portal available. It is essential to select a referee who can support the feasibility of your idea and endorse you as a candidate. Kindly note that once your application is submitted, no additional modifications or revisions can be made.