The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) unveiled on Tuesday the list of winners of the Champions of the Earth Award 2024, which honors key players in the fight against land degradation, desertification, and droughts.
In the “Political Leadership” category, Sonia Guajajara, the first minister of indigenous peoples in Brazil, was recognized for her commitment to indigenous rights, according to UNEP, which is headquartered in the Kenyan capital Nairobi. Under her leadership, 13 territories have been recognized as indigenous lands, marking a crucial advance in the fight against deforestation, illegal exploitation, and criminal activities threatening the Amazon.
Meanwhile, American lawyer Amy Bowers Cordalis was honored in the “Inspiration and Action” category for her initiatives aimed at restoring the Klamath River ecosystem and promoting sustainable fishing practices. Her work has helped advocate for the rights of the Yurok people while supporting local biodiversity, UNEP noted in a statement.
In the same category, Romanian activist Gabriel Paun, founder of the NGO “Agent Green,” was recognized for his fight against illegal logging in the ancient forests of the Carpathians, the statement continued, noting that Paun has succeeded in preserving thousands of hectares of unique biodiversity, home to species such as the lynx and the wolf.
For his part, Chinese scientist Lu Qi, specializing in reforestation, was awarded in the “Science and Innovation” category for his key role in the implementation of the “Great Green Wall,” the largest reforestation project in the world.
In the “Lifetime Achievement” category, UNEP honored Indian ecologist Madhav Gadgil for his contribution to the protection of natural resources, explaining that his work in the Western Ghats, a global biodiversity hotspot, has influenced public policies and raised awareness among populations about environmental issues.
Additionally, the Egyptian initiative SEKEM was awarded in the “Entrepreneurial Vision” category for its efforts in sustainable development.
“By promoting biodynamic agriculture and reforestation projects, SEKEM has transformed desert areas into prosperous agricultural lands, thus contributing to Egypt’s economic and environmental development,” UNEP stated.
“The 2024 winners demonstrate that leadership, courage, and innovation can pave the way for a sustainable future for all,” emphasized the UN organization, noting that with these awards, UNEP highlights the urgency and feasibility of concrete solutions to address global environmental challenges.