UNDP names 2023 Equator Prize winners from ten countries

The UN Development Programme announced the 14th Equator Prize winners, recognizing Indigenous and local community initiatives from ten countries with US$15,000 each. The awards spotlight grassroots, nature-based climate solutions that Indian community-based conservation and biodiversity programs can reference as models for sustainable development.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and partners announced the 14th Equator Prize winners, recognizing Indigenous peoples and local communities from ten countries: Brazil, Burundi, Bolivia, Ecuador, Greenland, Guatemala, Liberia, Nepal, the Philippines and Zambia. Winners were selected from over 500 nominations across 108 countries. Each receives a US$15,000 monetary prize. This year's laureates align with the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples theme, 'Indigenous Youth as Agents of Change for Self-determination,' with four initiatives led by young leaders advancing intergenerational equity.

The prize affects Indigenous peoples, local communities and grassroots organizations working on climate adaptation, biodiversity and poverty reduction. Since 2002, winners join a network of 275 communities recognized for adapting to climate change and combating poverty. Winners gain participation in virtual events alongside the UN General Assembly, SDG Summit, UN Climate Ambition Summit and COP 28 in Dubai, amplifying their voices globally. UNDP credited support from the Government of Norway, the Government of Germany, the Sall Family Foundation and partners for promoting nature-based solutions.

Indian community-based conservation programs, Indigenous and tribal organizations, and biodiversity practitioners can study these grassroots, nature-based models for replicable approaches to climate adaptation and poverty reduction. Stakeholders should monitor outcomes from winners' engagement at COP 28 in Dubai and related UN summits. Organizations pursuing recognition or funding for local sustainability initiatives may track future Equator Prize cycles, noting the emphasis on Indigenous youth leadership and intergenerational equity in this year's selection.

Key figure — Prize amount: US$15,000 per winner (ten winners)