The Additional Chief Secretary of the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Forests, Government of Tamil Nadu, Ms Supriya Sahu, has been awarded the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) Champions of the Earth Award 2025, the United Nations’ highest environmental honour.
Recognised in ‘Inspiration and Action’ Category
According to UNEP, Ms Sahu has been selected under the “Inspiration and Action” category for her leadership in addressing pressing climate and environmental challenges. She is among the global climate forerunners recognised for driving impactful and scalable solutions.
Integrated Governance and Nature-Based Solutions
Ms Sahu has been recognised for demonstrating how integrated governance, nature-based solutions, and a judicious mix of low-tech and high-tech interventions can:
- Protect vulnerable communities
- Strengthen climate resilience
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
- Promote sustainable and inclusive environmental governance
Her work has showcased practical models for balancing development with ecological conservation, particularly in climate-vulnerable regions.
About Champions of the Earth Award
- Established: 2005
- Presenter: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
- Status: UN’s highest environmental honour
Every year, UNEP recognises individuals and organisations working on innovative, bold and sustainable solutions to address the global environmental crisis.
Four Award Categories
Champions of the Earth are honoured under four categories:
- Policy Leadership
- Inspiration and Action
- Entrepreneurial Vision
- Science and Innovation
Ms Supriya Sahu has been awarded under the Inspiration and Action category.
20th Anniversary of the Award
The year 2025 marks the 20th anniversary of the Champions of the Earth awards. Since its inception:
- 127 laureates have been recognised
- 28 world leaders
- 77 individuals
- 22 organisations
Source: UN
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