The Zayed Sustainability Prize, a leading global award for sustainability and humanitarianism, has concluded its 2025 awards cycle with an impressive 5,980 applications from 156 countries.
The Prize, which totals U.S. $5.9 million, received a notable 15% increase in submissions compared to the previous year, underscoring its growing influence worldwide.
Entries spanned six categories: Health, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action, and Global High Schools. Notably, submissions showcased advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (A.I.), blockchain, and biotechnology, reflecting a trend towards innovative solutions in sustainability.
H.E. Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Director General of the Zayed Sustainability Prize highlighted the Prize’s impact, stating, “For the last 16 years, the Prize has supported innovative solutions addressing global challenges and transforming the lives of over 384 million people worldwide.”
The submissions, diverse in origin and language, particularly highlighted the impact of climate change across continents. Emerging markets, including Brazil, India, and Kenya, led the submissions, demonstrating a global commitment to catalyzing local solutions for sustainability.
The Food and Climate Action categories garnered the highest number of entries, with innovations focused on sustainable food production and climate mitigation strategies.
Meanwhile, the Energy category saw significant contributions towards expanding access to sustainable energy solutions, including hydrogen fuel systems and energy storage technologies.
Entries from high schools more than doubled, showcasing youth engagement and dedication to sustainable practices.
Proposals included innovations in food production, recycling, and bioenergy, illustrating a growing interest in sustainability education among young global citizens.
Following the close of submissions, an independent consultancy will shortlist entries, and a Selection Committee and Jury of industry experts will evaluate and select winners in October.
Each category winner will receive U.S. $1 million to further their sustainability initiatives, with the Global High Schools category awarding up to U.S. $150,000 to winners from six world regions.
Since its inception in 2008, the Zayed Sustainability Prize has continued to drive global sustainable development and humanitarian progress, amplifying its impact across communities worldwide.
The winners of the 2025 awards will be announced at the Awards Ceremony on 14 January 2025, during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, further celebrating innovation and commitment to a sustainable future.
