Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) – The Zayed Sustainability Prize, the UAE’s flagship global accolade for sustainability and humanitarian achievement, has wrapped up its call for entries for the 2025 awards cycle. 

The response this year was unprecedented, with 5,980 applications submitted across six categories: Health, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action, and Global High Schools. Entries were received from 156 countries, marking a notable 15% increase from the previous year.

The surge in applications underscores a growing global commitment to addressing critical sustainability challenges through innovative solutions. The Prize, named in honor of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, has consistently championed groundbreaking initiatives that tackle pressing global issues, and this year’s submissions reflect an impressive array of technological advancements.

A distinct trend in this year’s entries is the widespread integration of cutting-edge technologies. From artificial intelligence (AI) and big data to blockchain, 3D printing, and biotechnology, these technologies are central to many proposed solutions. This highlights a global recognition of the role of technological innovation in advancing sustainability goals.

H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, Director General of the Zayed Sustainability Prize, and COP28 President, commented on the significant milestone: “For the last 16 years, the Zayed Sustainability Prize has supported innovative solutions that address pressing global challenges and deliver tangible impact to communities around the world. Inspired by Sheikh Zayed’s commitment to humanitarianism and people-focused, inclusive sustainable development, the Prize has transformed the lives of over 384 million people.”

Dr. Al Jaber expressed his enthusiasm for the record number of submissions, noting the increased participation from young people and organizations in the Global South. “This overwhelming response, particularly from emerging markets, reinforces our belief that cutting-edge technologies, combined with community-driven approaches, are essential for addressing climate change and driving progress.”

The variety in submissions this year is a testament to the widespread impact of climate change. Emerging markets, including Brazil, India, Kenya, Egypt, the UAE, and the United States, were among the top contributors. Submissions were accepted in multiple languages – Arabic, English, French, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish – reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and diverse perspectives.

The Food category saw the highest number of entries, with 1,255 applications addressing sustainable food production through innovative agricultural technologies. The Climate Action category, with 1,532 submissions, focused on solutions for deforestation, carbon emissions reduction, and biodiversity enhancement. Health submissions emphasized improving healthcare access and disease prevention, while entries in the Energy category showcased advancements in sustainable energy technologies. The Water category highlighted innovations in water conservation and treatment.

The Global High Schools category experienced a significant increase in submissions, with a notable rise in youth engagement. High school entries included sustainable food production methods, recycling strategies, and the use of bioenergy.

The evaluation process for the Prize will now proceed through a rigorous multi-tiered assessment. An independent consultancy will first shortlist the entries, followed by a review by a Selection Committee of renowned industry experts. The final stage will involve a Jury meeting in October to select the winners.

Each winner in the Health, Food, Energy, Water, and Climate Action categories will receive US$1 million to expand their solutions, while the Global High Schools category will award six winners, one from each world region, with up to US$150,000 each.

Since its inception in 2008, the Zayed Sustainability Prize has awarded over US$5.9 million and positively impacted more than 384 million lives globally. The Prize remains a vital platform for recognizing and scaling impactful solutions that drive sustainable development and humanitarian progress.

The winners will be celebrated at the Awards Ceremony on 14 January 2025, during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, further affirming the Prize’s role in advancing global sustainability initiatives.

The Zayed Sustainability Prize continues to honor the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan by driving global efforts towards a sustainable and equitable future.