Modi conferred UN’s highest environmental honour

Prime minister Narendra Modi has been awarded with the UN’s Champions of the Earth Award for his leadership in promoting solar energy and for his pledge to eliminate single use plastic in India by 2022.

Six of the world’s most outstanding environmental changemakers have been recognised with the Champions of the Earth Award.

“This years’ laureates are recognised for a combination of bold, innovative and tireless efforts to tackle some of the most urgent environmental issues of our times,” the UN environment programme said.

French president Emmanuel Macron and Modi have been jointly recognised in the Policy Leadership category for their work in championing the International Solar Alliance and promoting new areas of levels of cooperation on environmental action, including Macron’s work on the Global Pact for the Environment and Modi’s unprecedented pledge to eliminate all single-use plastic in India by 2022.

Cochin International Airport has also been honoured this year with the award for Entrepreneurial Vision, for its leadership in the use of sustainable energy. “Cochin is showing the world that our ever-expanding network of global movement doesn’t have to harm the environment. As the pace of society continues to increase, the world’s first fully solar-powered airport is proof positive that green business is good business,” UNEP said.

Others who have won this year's Champions of the Earth Award include Joan Carling for her work as one of the world’s most prominent defenders of environmental and indigenous rights and Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods in the Science and Innovation category for their development of a popular, plant-based alternative to beef.

China’s Zhejiang’s Green Rural Revival Programme was awarded for Inspiration and Action for the transformation of a once heavily polluted area of rivers and streams in East China’s Zhejiang province.

This exceptionally successful eco-restoration programme shows the transformative power of economic and environmental development together.

“In a world of uncertainty, this is certain: We will not solve the extraordinary challenges our world faces today without extraordinary talent, new thinking and bold ideas,” Head of UN Environment Erik Solheim was quoted as saying by Press Trust of India (PTI).

“The Champions of the Earth Award and Young Champions of the Earth Prize recognise those not afraid to chart unknown waters or be the voice of the voiceless. These people are changing our world today for a better tomorrow.”