Every year the UN holds a contest where ambitious, brilliant and brave environmentalists from the age 18 to 30 can enter. This year seven Young Champions of the Earth was selected – one from each region of the globe.
How does the contest work? In short, everyone from the age of 18 to 30 with a great idea on how to change the world can enter. The finalists from each global region will be chosen following an open call for applications. Last but not least, the winners will be selected by a global jury. Each winner is expected to keep UNEP updated on their progress and projects via videos and blogs.
The UN writes:
Are you a change-maker, rain-maker, ground-breaker? Do you see opportunity where others see crisis? Do you want to change the world? Young Champions of the Earth aims to celebrate and support individuals aged between 18 and 30 who have outstanding potential to create a positive environmental impact.
So what about the prize? Well, each winner will receive:
- US$10,000 in seed funding
- Attendance at a high-level UN meeting
- An introduction to dignitaries at the Champions of the Earth award ceremony
- Publicity and recognition through interviews and online and global media
One of the winners, Max Hidalgo Quinto believes “science and technology with a social and environmental focus can help us build a better world”. Max, who is a 30 years old scientist and entrepreneur from Peru, came up with a project called Yawa.
Yawa is a portable, multifunctional and sustainable technology capable of storing 300 litres of water a day, drawn from the atmospheric humidity and mist. This technology could for example provide access to drinking water to communities or for irrigation of green buildings. Yawa is also a good alternative to prepare for whatever the future might hold.
Read more about Max and the other winners HERE.
Contests like this inspire young people to take action. To dare, to try, to make the world a better place.
