UNEP Young Champions of the Earth 2025
About the Award
Launched in 2017 by UNEP as its flagship youth engagement initiative.
Recognizes young environmental entrepreneurs (<30 years) for innovative solutions to global challenges.
Winners receive:
Seed funding (US$20,000 each)
Mentoring & communications support
Global platform to scale ideas
This year partnered with Chris Kemper (CEO, Palmetto; UNEP Advocate for Partnerships).
2025 Winners
Jinali Mody (28, India)
Founder: Banofi Leather
Produces leather alternatives from banana crop waste.
Benefits: Reduces water use, toxic waste, CO₂ emissions; supports sustainable fashion; women-led initiative.
Joseph Nguthiru (27, Kenya)
Founder: HyaPak
Converts invasive water hyacinth from Lake Naivasha into biodegradable packaging & seedling wrappers.
Benefits: Tackles plastic pollution, improves soil health, offsets emissions.
Noemi Florea (24, US)
Founder: Cycleau
Compact greywater reuse system (installs under sinks, showers, laundry).
Converts wastewater into drinking water with low energy use.
Benefits: Expands clean water access, reduces wastewater.