On December 10th, the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) announced that SEKEM has been honored as one of the 2024 Champions of the Earth. Notably, we are the sole recipient from Africa and the Middle East this year. This prestigious award is the highest honor bestowed by the United Nations in the environmental category. It recognizes six individuals and organizations making significant strides in combating land degradation, desertification, and drought.
We received the award in the “Entrepreneurial Vision” category for our innovative approach to promoting biodynamic agriculture. This recognition highlights our dedication to transforming arid desert landscapes into thriving agricultural centers through sustainable practices. These efforts focus on enhancing soil health, mitigating climate change, and optimizing water resources, all while promoting community well-being and producing nutritious food.
Other 2024 Champions of the Earth Laureates
In addition to SEKEM, other remarkable leaders were recognized for their groundbreaking work in environmental sustainability. Among them was Sonia Guajajara, Brazil’s Minister of Indigenous Peoples, honored for her leadership in protecting Indigenous lands and advocating for the rights of Indigenous women. Gabriel Paun of Romania received the award for his work in protecting Europe’s last old-growth forests, while Lu Qi of China was honored for his scientific contributions to reversing desertification through afforestation projects. Additionally, Madhav Gadgil, an Indian ecologist, was honoured for spending decades protecting people and the planet through research and community engagement and Amy Bowers Cordalis, an Indigenous rights advocate, who is using her legal expertise and passion for restoration to secure a better future for the Yurok tribe and the Klamath River in the United States.
Global Challenge of Desertification and Drought
The 2024 Champions of the Earth awards come at a time when desertification, drought, and land degradation continue to threaten the livelihoods of billions. According to the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), about 3.2 billion people are currently at risk from desertification, and by 2050, more than three-quarters of the global population could be affected by droughts. These environmental challenges necessitate bold, innovative solutions and leadership—qualities that the Champions of the Earth exemplify.
Photos and Video Credit: UNEP/Mahmoud Zeyada