FAQs

 

What does it take for your big idea to win?

Learn more about the programme

We’re looking for ideas that are original, innovative and ambitious. They speak directly to an environmental challenge like biodiversity loss, climate change, or pollution and waste – and they hold the promise of scale. As Albert Einstein famously stated, “we can't solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them.” Don’t be afraid to think outside the box.

Your idea might be a grassroots campaign to promote low-carbon transport; an app to increase ecological literacy; a tree-planting crusade to restore a degraded catchment; a festival of art showcasing nature’s marvels; a technology to save and recycle scarce water resources; a financial tool to facilitate access to clean energy; or a new method of community-based natural resource management.

Your fresh thinking and creative energy gives you an edge over older generations. Use it to become a driver of positive change.

Do I have to be studying environmental science or working in the environmental sector in order to win?

No. We believe that anyone has the potential to become a Young Champion of the Earth.

I have a big idea, but I’m not yet 18. Why can’t I apply for the award?

Your time will come! We know that age is just a number, and it shouldn’t stop anyone from having a big idea or making a difference. However, in order for us to recognize your abilities as an environmental change-maker, we need to see hard evidence in the form of life experience and past achievements. Young Champions of the Earth will also be required to travel unaccompanied to various ceremonies, training workshops and media events.

Is there an application fee?

No. There is no cost to participate.

Can a group submit a joint application?

We know how important it is to work with a brilliant team, but Young Champions of the Earth is looking to identify forward-thinking individuals driving change. Your idea may have been a collaborative effort, and the work itself might require a whole crew; but ultimately the award, mentorship and promotion will be given to a person, not a group.

Can I submit more than one application?

No. We encourage you to submit only your very best idea.

How can I submit my application?

You can submit your application via the application form on this website. You will need to identify a referee who can vouch for the viability of your idea and for you as an individual. Once you submit your application, no further edits or changes will be possible.

How many people am I competing against?

We expect to receive thousands of applications.

Who will review and score my application?

Experts from UNEP and Planet A will evaluate your application.

When and how will the results be announced?

If you are selected as a Young Champions of the Earth, you will be notified by email, and the winners will be publicly announced soon afterwards.

If I win, what will be my travel obligations?

If you are selected as a Young Champion of the Earth, you will be required to travel to attend and participate in the award ceremony, mentorship workshops, and Planet A pitch competition in New York (exact dates and locations to be announced to winners only). All travel expenses will be covered. All winners must have a valid passport.

What is the Planet A pitch competition?

This competition, hosted by Planet A , gives the Young Champions the opportunity to hone their business/“big idea” pitch and present it to a live audience from the environmental and business communities. One winner will be selected by a panel of expert judges and awarded a $100,000 grant from Planet A.

What else will be required of me?

• Create a series of self-shot videos using iPhones (UNEP will provide phones, multimedia training and storytelling mentorship to make sure your videos look great)
• Share your personal story on UNEP’s social media and other storytelling channels
• Grant UNEP permission to use your stories on our partner platforms, including Apple Vision Pro headsets and Planet A platforms

Are there restrictions on how I can spend the prize money?

Young Champions of the Earth are required to use the initial US$10,000 to implement their big ideas. We hope you will make the most of this money, mentorship, publicity and networking to become an environmental change-maker. Winners will be required to submit a final report and budget outlining their expenditures and achievements.