The Goldman Environmental Prize is the world’s largest award for grassroots
environmentalists. Awarded annually since 1990, the Prize is given to environmental heroes from the six continental regions of Africa, Asia, Islands & Island Nations, Europe,
North America and South & Central America.

The Prize is announced in April every year, to coincide with the international
celebration of Earth Day. It includes a trip to San Francisco to accept the cash award of $125,000 per winner. Recipients receive a bronze sculpture that interprets the crosscultural motif of a snake with its tail in its mouth. Known as the ouroboros, this symbol is associated with nature’s powers of renewal.

The purpose of the Prize is to recognize sustained and significant efforts to preserve the natural environment, including, but not limited to, protecting endangered ecosystems and species combating destructive development projects; promoting sustainability; influencing environmental policies;and striving for environmental justice.

Prize recipients demonstrate exceptional courage and commitment, often working
at great personal risk to protect our environment and, ultimately, life on earth. In
the process, they inspire the rest of us to do the same. The Prize increases public
awareness of these individuals and their struggles and provides them with:

• International recognition that enhances their credibility
• Worldwide visibility for the issues they champion
• Financial support to pursue their vision of a renewed and protected environment

Reflecting worldwide concern for environmental issues, more than half of the world’s heads of state have endorsed the Prize. Every year the winners receive press coverage throughout the world. This media attention helps educate people around the globe about crucial environmental challenges.

As of 2005, the Goldman Environmental Prize has been awarded to 107 people
representing 65 countries.

Visit the Goldman Prize Website