All Laureates

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…

Nemonte Nenquimo didn’t ask to be a celebrity, not to become friends with Oscar-winner Leonardo DiCaprio, nor to be named by Time magazine as one of the most influential people in the world. 

What the indigenous rights activist wanted was for her four-year-old daughter to live in peace, surrounded by the richness of the Amazon…

The law students who struck a seismic blow for climate justice 

In the Pacific Islands, a group of students turned their frustration into legal firepower, demanding justice for their vulnerable nations and challenging the biggest polluters in court. 

When Cynthia Houniuhi…

Since Patagonia was founded in 1973 by renowned environmentalist and entrepreneur Yvon Chouinard, the US outdoor apparel brand has won plaudits for its sustainable supply chains and advocacy for the environment. The company recently updated its mission statement to reflect the urgency of the environmental crisis: “We’re in business to save our…

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 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…

President Thabo Mbeki and the people of South Africa’s commitment to cultural and environmental diversity and their efforts towards achieving the goals encapsulated in the Millennium Declaration of 2000 and the Johannesburg Plan of Implementation adopted at the World Summit for Sustainable Development (WSSD) in 2002 are noteworthy.

The…

Afghanistan’s 46-year-old Director General of the National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA), Prince Mostapha Zaher has laid the foundation for a sustainable and peaceful future in Afghanistan. For the past five years, he has worked tirelessly for the environment in a country ravaged by 25 years of war and continues to find ways to bring…

As President of Third UN Conference on the Law of the Sea (1980-1982) and as the Chairman of Preparatory Committee and of the Main Committee of the UN Conference on Environment and Development (1990-1992), Professor Tommy Koh of Singapore has contributed greatly to promoting international environmental cooperation. These events are only two of…