Sheikh Mohammed established the Zayed International Prize for the Environment in 1999 in recognition of and appreciation for the environmental achievements of the UAE's first President, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

The prize, now widely considered the most significant environmental award in the world, is presented biennially to individuals or organisations that have contributed to the improvement of the environment.

	Sheikh Mohammed presenting the award to Prince Albert

The Competition

• The awards are open to anyone whose achievements have improved the environment, particularly in the following areas:
• Fragile ecosystems
• Protecting fresh water supplies and applying integrated concepts for developing, managing and utilising water resources
• The conservation and development of biological diversity and wildlife
• Protecting the marine environment, developing its biological resources and adopting integrated coastal zone management
• Enhancing sustainable rural development
• Enhancing sustainable development of industry and energy sectors, and controlling resultant pollution
• Transferring and introducing environmentally sound technologies into the production and use of resources
• Environmental health
• Raising awareness through environmental education and community participation
• Promoting regional and international cooperation in sustainable development
• Enhancing the role of women in the development of the environment
• Environmental security

Nominations can be made to the Higher Committee of the Prize and are assessed by this committee in conjunction with the United Nations and the International Jury of the Prize. The Prize may be awarded to more than one individual or organisation.

In the inaugural cycle of the Prize (1999-2001) the Jury divided the Prize into three categories:

Category 1

For eminent international figures with a record of outstanding international achievements who have had a significant impact on international environmental policy.

Category 2

For individuals or organisations who have made significant scientific progress in the field of the environment.

Category 3

For non-government organisations or civil society organisations who have demonstrated long-term dedication or innovative approaches that have resulted in a significant improvement in attitude or performance in terms of the environment in their respective sectors or in society generally
The Prize is presented at a biennial ceremony held to coincide with the activities of the UAE National Environment Day on February 4th.

Prizes

Winners receive the Zayed International Prize for the Environment medals and certificates of appreciation and prize money as follows:

Category 1 winner - US $500,000
Category 2 winner  - US $300,000
Category 3 winner  - US $200,000

On March 14, 2011 the Zayed International Prize for the Environment Awards were distributed by Sheikh Mohammed  during a ceremony at Dubai International Convention Center.

Winners (2011-2013)

	Sheikh Mohammed in a group photo with the award winners

The First Category:
His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco is named the global winner of the Zayed International Prize for the Environment Award.

The 2nd Category:
Dr. Ashok Khosla (India) and Dr. Zakri Abdul Hamid (Malaysia) - Scientific and Technological Achievement in Environment

The 3rd Category:
Paula Caballero Gómez (Colombia) and Dr. Luc Hoffmann (Switzerland) - Environmental Action Leading to Positive Change in Society

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