Winner Updates

The UNEP Sasakawa Prize has recognized excellence in the environmental field for more than 20 years. Each year, a new laureate with innovative ideas that deserve a helping hand receive the $200,000 financial component of the Prize. Over the years, past laureates and their initiatives have continued to make outstanding contributions to the protection and management of the environment. The reach of the UNEP Sasakawa Prize expands beyond the awards ceremony and gives support to many excellent initiatives. Read the latest updates and media coverage about former UNEP Sasakawa Prize laureates.

Shidhulai Swanirvar Sangstha (Bangladesh) - 2007 UNEP Sasakawa Prize Laureate
Founded in 1998, Shidhulai Swanirvar Sangstha helps poor and marginalized people in the remote Chalanbeel region while combating the effects of climate change, particularly devastating floods and rising water levels. The Shidhulai initiative builds flat-bottomed boats from locally available materials, which make their way through the rivers and shallow canals of the region to bring a range of educational services and renewable energy supplies to 88,000 families each year. The project has thrived over the years and has received international attention since winning the UNEP Sasakawa Prize.

BBC News
Building a secure future in Bangladesh

Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) - US, Foreign Exchange with Daljit Dhaliwal
January 30, 2009 - show 503
Combating Global Warming in Bangladesh

Shidhulai Swanirvar Sangstha, Bangladesh
Directed by Steve Hobbs/Ashden Awards UK

Public Broadcasting Services (PBS), NewsHour with Jim Lehrer
March 28, 2008
After Major Cyclone, Bangladesh Worries about Climate Change

Public Broadcasting Services (PBS)
February 15, 2008
Bangladesh Relief