Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Zayed Sustainability Prize, one of the world’s most prestigious awards in the fields of sustainable development and humanitarian action, established by the UAE, has closed applications for its 2025 edition. Marking its 17th year, the Prize received a record-breaking 7,761 submissions from 173 countries, with a total prize fund of US$5.9 million.

Non-profit organizations and small and medium-sized enterprises are competing for awards in the categories of Health, Food, Energy, Water, and Climate Action, while school students have the opportunity to participate through the special Global High Schools category. Dedicated to supporting innovative sustainability initiatives that improve the lives of vulnerable communities, the Prize has already positively impacted 400 million people worldwide, with 128 laureates to date.

Organizers highlighted a surge of interest this year, noting a 30% increase in applications compared to 2024. Around 85% of the projects came from Asia, Africa, and Latin America, led by BRICS members and partners such as India, Ethiopia, Uzbekistan, Brazil, and Indonesia. Submissions from Central Asia and Russia grew by 66% to around 400, with Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan showing the strongest engagement.

Many entries combine cutting-edge technologies—including artificial intelligence and fintech solutions—with grassroots initiatives, reflecting the growing global trend of merging innovation with social impact. UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Director General of the Prize Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber noted that the record number of applications demonstrates the international community’s commitment to practical, scalable, and long-term solutions. He praised in particular the progress in transforming food systems and the growing role of innovation in tackling global challenges.

The Climate Action category drew the greatest interest this year, featuring initiatives ranging from climate adaptation strategies and direct carbon capture technologies to early warning systems for natural disasters. The Food category also saw strong demand, with projects in precision farming and agri-robotics. Applications in Health rose by more than 60%, with proposals including AI-powered diagnostic tools, portable health monitoring devices, and systems to expand access to medical care.

In the Water category, projects focused on innovative methods to expand access to fresh water, such as extracting moisture from the air and energy-efficient desalination. The Energy category attracted proposals in low-carbon fuels, thermal energy storage, and modernization of energy systems.

The Global High Schools category also stood out, with student teams proposing AI-based climate monitoring systems, smart irrigation technologies, affordable water filters, and waste recycling innovations.

Winners will be announced on 13 January 2026, at the awards ceremony during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week. Each winner in the main categories will receive US$1 million to implement their projects, while six schools will each be awarded US$150,000.

The Zayed Sustainability Prize, an initiative of Erth Zayed Philanthropies, was established in memory of the UAE’s Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. It serves as a key platform for advancing sustainable development and fostering global cooperation.