Rooftop power stations, rainforest defenders and refugee pioneers are in contention for this year’s Ashden Awards, a statement released by the UK-based climate solutions charity Ashden reveals.
The annual awards boost outstanding, inclusive climate innovation in the UK and Global South. Innovation that creates a fairer and more sustainable future – a future where green businesses thrive, nature flourishes, and communities own and enjoy the benefits of climate action.
Ashden’s Head of Awards Dr. Stephen Hall said: “We’re thrilled with this year’s Ashden Awards finalists. They’re brimming with epic climate ambition – ambition to slash global emissions and transform our world. They’re also pioneers of climate justice, building a world that’s fairer and greener. It’s no surprise to find these two qualities together: when it comes to climate action, they go hand-in-hand.
“Change happens faster when more people believe in it, back it, and enjoy the benefits. We’re really proud to celebrate these organisations, and urge investors, funders and policymakers to support them too.”
Solar Sisters and forest guardians: climate innovation for a fairer, greener world
Finalists for this year’s seven award categories were announced this week.
Award winners receive grants, global publicity and connection to funders, investors and partners. This year’s champions will be announced in a ceremony on Thurs June 27 at the Institute of Engineering and Technology, part of London Climate Action Week.
Possible winners include GOGO Electric (formerly known as Bodawerk Ltd) – revving up the electric motorcycle industry in Uganda – and Emergent Energy, lowering bills and emissions with solar microgrids for social housing.
Four award categories focus on the Global South, and three of these highlight pioneers widening access to clean energy. They include awards centred on skills and jobs, and energy access for refugees. A fourth Global South award celebrates organisations boosting sustainable livelihoods for Indigenous People, and other communities living in threatened natural habitats.
Three UK-focused categories highlight work creating natural defences to extreme weather, and clean energy innovation. All categories feature two finalists, apart from one – the Ashden Award for People’s Energy – for which five organisations are eligible.
The finalists have been selected with the help of panels of expert judges including academics, investors, civil society leaders and journalists. These panels will also decide the final winners.
