ELIGIBILITY:

The prize honours individuals, groups, institutes, or organizations that have made significant contributions to environmental conservation in line with UNESCO’s mission. Eligible achievements may include environmental and natural resources research, environmental education and training, awareness-raising initiatives, and activities related to the establishment and management of protected areas such as Biosphere Reserves, World Heritage sites, and UNESCO Global Geoparks. 

Nominations must be submitted by governments or non-governmental organizations maintaining official relations with UNESCO; self-nominations are not accepted.  

Each submission should include: 

A completed nomination form

A written recommendation, and

The names of three independent referees familiar with the candidate’s work.  

The deadline for nominations is 15 June 2026, and submissions should be sent to the Secretariat of the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme (mab@unesco.org).  

UNESCO particularly encourages nominations supporting female candidates, reflecting the Organization’s commitment to gender equality and inclusive leadership in environmental conservation.   

BENEFIT:

Awarded every two years, the prize includes a certificate and a financial award of US$100,000 and will be presented during the World Science Forum in November 2026.