The prize aims to turn the current pessimism surrounding environmental issues into optimism, by highlighting the ability of human ingenuity to bring about change, and inspiring collective action.
Five £1,000,000 (almost $NZ 2 million) prizes are awarded each year, across five categories:
- protect and restore nature,
- clean our air,
- revive our oceans,
- build a waste-free world,
- and fix our climate.
The Earthshot Prize looks for new solutions that have a positive effect on environmental change and improve living standards globally, particularly for communities who are most at risk from climate change.
Prizes can be awarded to a wide range of individuals, teams, or collaborations—scientists, activists, economists, community projects, leaders, governments, banks, businesses, cities, and countries—anyone whose evidence-based solutions makes a substantial contribution to achieving the Earthshots.
Find out about the winners and finalists of previous years’ Earthshot Prizes.
The nomination round is now open, and Te Herenga Waka is an official nominator. We are currently calling for projects to nominate. Visit our webpage for the application form, where you can also find out more about the criteria for selection.
If this is something that would be relevant to your network, we encourage you to share this opportunity—and if you’re aware of any projects that align with the Earthshot Prize criteria, please encourage them to apply to be nominated.
All applications must be submitted by Tuesday 28 October 2025.
If you have any questions about the Earthshot Prize or the nomination process, reach out to Andrew Wilks, Director, Sustainability.