The Search for Environmental Changemakers
Every year, the Goldman Environmental Prize honors grassroots environmental leaders from around the world—ordinary people achieving extraordinary change. Through a rigorous nominations and selection process, the Prize identifies individuals driving environmental impact through grassroots activism.
How the Prize Nominations Process Works
1. Nominating Partners Identify Candidates
A global network of environmental experts submits nominations for the Prize for the upcoming year.
2. Rigorous Research & Review
Throughout the summer, the Goldman Prize staff conduct in-depth research on each nominee.
3. Selection by International Jury
Goldman Prize winner selections are made in November by the Goldman Prize Jury, which includes the Foundation’s Board of Directors and environmental experts from around the world.
How Do I Nominate Someone for the Goldman Prize?
The Goldman Prize does not accept unsolicited nominations. To nominate an environmental leader for the Goldman Prize, one must be an official nominating partner. Nominators are selected based on their connection to the environmental field and grassroots movements.
If you are interested in becoming a nominator, you may submit a request for consideration, including a letter of interest and relevant credentials, to the Prize team.
Who is Eligible for the Goldman Prize?
The Goldman Prize is awarded to individuals (or, occasionally, duos) who have achieved a recent, specific environmental achievement with measurable impact through grassroots leadership within the past few years.
What the Prize
IS Awarded For
- One recent, specific environmental achievement with measurable impact through grassroots leadership within the past few years
What the Prize
Is NOT Awarded For
- Posthumous recognition
- A lifetime of multiple achievements in the environmental field
- Executives of large organizations or government officials acting within the scope of their jobs
- More than two people or communities
- Academic achievements or awareness raising alone
2026 Nominating Organizations
We are grateful to our nominating partners—dedicated experts who play a vital role in illuminating the work of grassroots environmental leaders and bringing their stories to international audiences. Thank you to all who nominated for this year’s Goldman Prize.
