In a dazzling ceremony in Rio de Janeiro, the Earthshot Prize 2025 winners were announced, showcasing groundbreaking projects led by innovators focused on ecological restoration and sustainability. Among the champions of environmental stewardship are initiatives addressing the protection of Brazil's vital Atlantic Forest and a global treaty aimed at conserving oceanic resources.
Each winning project will receive a substantial grant of £1 million to further their efforts in combating climate change and restoring biodiversity. Prince William, who founded this prestigious environmental accolade in 2020, praised the winners for their creativity and commitment, calling them an inspiration for a collective push towards a more sustainable and equitable world.
Notable figures such as Brazilian footballer Cafu and Olympian Rebeca Andrade joined Prince William on stage, accompanied by performances from pop icons like Kylie Minogue and Shawn Mendes. The event highlighted the cultural significance of indigenous contributions within the broader context of ecological recovery.
With nearly 2,500 nominations submitted from over 70 countries, the selection process yielded 15 finalists, showcasing global diversity in environmental innovation. The five winners focus on distinct but interconnected themes: Protect and Restore Nature, Clean Our Air, Revive Our Oceans, Build a Waste-Free World, and Fix Our Climate.
The recognized Brazilian project, re.green, aims to make conservation of the Atlantic Forest economically viable, while the High Seas Treaty emerges as a landmark commitment to marine life conservation. Other winners include initiatives from Bogotá and Lagos, demonstrating effective local policies in urban planning and sustainable fashion.
Emphasizing the urgency of action, Prince William reaffirmed his dedication to the Earthshot initiative for the next decade, as the world faces escalating climate challenges. His comments resonate strongly with indigenous communities worldwide, whose traditional ecological knowledge plays a critical role in creating effective climate solutions.
As attendees looked towards a future rooted in collective action and resilience, the Earthshot Prize continues to cultivate a hopeful vision of environmental progress, underpinned by innovations from historically marginalized communities.
