Laureates by Category

Before her murder, Berta Cáceres threw her life into a tireless grassroots struggle for the rights of marginalized and poverty-stricken indigenous peoples in her native Honduras.

Her death in early 2016, aged 44, sparked an international outcry at the unacceptable levels of violence and intimidation facing environmental activists in many…

José Sarukhán Kermez has spent a lifetime not just leading students, fellow researchers and politicians to a greater understanding of biological diversity and its value – he has pioneered ways to translate that insight into action.

Sarukhán, 76, persuaded the Mexican government to establish a permanent top-level commission on biodiversity…

Leyla Acaroglu instigates positive environmental and social change through innovation. A New York-based Australian designer, social scientist, and sustainability expert, she is internationally recognized as a leader in the use of disruptive design across sustainability and educational initiatives. Her mainstage TED Talk has collected over one…

Masen, the Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy, spearheads the first large-scale capture of solar energy in the Middle East and North Africa, a bold initiative to make solar power affordable and reduce the country’s dependence on high-carbon imports.

The first phase of the Moroccan Solar Plan NOOR, the NOOR Ouarzazate I, a 160 MW…

Paul Kagame is the current President of Rwanda having taken office in 2000.

President Kagame has prioritised national development, launching a programme to develop Rwanda as a middle income country by 2020. As of 2014, the country is developing strongly on key indicators, including health care and education: Rwanda’s maternal mortality…

For outstanding courage in fighting the illegal wildlife trade at community level

The Black Mamba Anti-Poaching Unit is a majority women group of rangers, founded by Transfrontier Africa to protect the Olifants West Region of Balule Nature Reserve, part of Greater Kruger National Park in South Africa. The area where the Black…

For outstanding leadership on the frontline of climate change

HE Sheikh Hasina became Prime Minister of Bangladesh for the second time in 2009, following a period in office between 1996 and 2001, and immediately set about tackling the issue of climate change.

With a population of 140 million, Bangladesh is one of the world’…

National Geographic is a global nonprofit membership organization driven by a passionate belief in the power of science, exploration and storytelling to change the world. For over 127 years, National Geographic has funded thousands of research, conservation and education programs around the globe, creating a community of explorers who have…

For unparalleled commitment to trailblazing sustainable business models

Founded in 1969, Natura is a Brazilian brand leader in cosmetics, fragrances and personal care in the direct selling model in Brazil. Created from a passion for cosmetics and relationships, Natura is present in Argentina, Chile, Colombia, France, Mexico and…

For championing equitable and sustainable business practices for a better world

Under Paul Polman’s leadership, Unilever has developed an ambitious vision to fully decouple its growth from environmental degradation and increase its positive social impact through the Unilever Sustainable Living Plan—entirely consistent with his…