Ecosia has just deposited €1,000,000 with a notary in Berlin, reserved solely to help create a new Climate Nobel Prize.
Why? Because the climate crisis is accelerating, and many of the ideas that could reshape our future do not yet have the global visibility needed for widespread, rapid adoption. There is no Nobel Prize dedicated to consistently highlighting the scientists, innovators, communities, policymakers and movements working to keep our planet livable. Such visibility would not be merely symbolic, but could help accelerate the cultural shift this moment requires.
A Climate Nobel Prize would not replace or compete with existing categories, but would build on the remarkable Nobel tradition by elevating climate leadership to an unprecedented level of global attention. When society celebrates a type of work, that work gains power and momentum. A prize with this level of prestige can help accelerate progress at a moment when it matters most.
The idea is aligned with Alfred Nobel’s original vision that his prizes serve “the greatest benefit to humankind.” In the 21st century, that must include protecting the climate system that every human life depends on. Just as the Economics Prize was added in 1969, it’s time for a Climate Nobel Prize now.
Here’s our plan
We have contacted the Nobel Foundation with a letter sharing our offer and expressing our hope for a collaborative path forward. Our intention is that this prize is administered under Nobel governance, with the same independence, credibility and rigor as every other category. Our seed funding is ready to be released the moment the Nobel Committee agrees to bring this prize to life.
To symbolize the future we hope to see, we built a handmade blue Nobel chair, similar to those used by laureates at the Nobel Prize ceremony. It remains empty for now — a reminder of the place climate action could one day hold, if we work together.
If you believe the people and projects protecting life on Earth deserve the world’s highest recognition and visibility, you can help. Share the idea. Talk about it. Public support demonstrates that the time is right for climate action to be celebrated at the highest level.
