O Earthna Award 2026 – Traditional Knowledge and Sustainability It stands out as a crucial initiative for safeguarding and promoting ancestral knowledge, which, in Cape Verde, is intrinsically linked to the sustainable management of natural resources. Cape Verde, an archipelago with unique biodiversity and fragile ecosystems, finds in its traditional knowledge a fundamental pillar for tackling the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation. This award specifically aims to recognise and promote projects, individuals and communities that demonstrate the practical application of this knowledge in fostering resilience and sustainability across various areas, ranging from traditional agriculture adapted to arid conditions, through coastal and marine management, to water and soil conservation practices.
The significance of this award goes beyond simply bestowing recognition. It serves as a catalyst for the sustainable innovation, encouraging the interconnection between traditional knowledge and modern scientific approaches. We believe that, by raising the profile of and providing financial support for exemplary projects, we can inspire a wider network of practitioners and institutions to follow the same principles. This exchange of experiences is vital for the development of effective strategies that preserve both Cape Verde’s cultural heritage and its ecological integrity for future generations. The award aims to highlight concrete and replicable solutions that demonstrate the potential of traditional knowledge to generate economic, social and environmental benefits.
A entry for the Earthna 2026 Award It is open to a wide range of stakeholders, including non-governmental organisations, research institutions, local communities, local authorities and individuals who are actively committed to the preservation and application of traditional knowledge in the interests of sustainability. Applications presenting innovative proposals with a proven impact and potential for scalability will be assessed. A specialist panel, comprising academics, conservation experts and representatives of civil society, will carefully review each proposal, focusing on originality, feasibility and contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals. Cape Verde’s diversity, in terms of its islands and cultures, offers a rich mosaic of traditional knowledge that deserves to be celebrated and strengthened.
O application process for the 2026 Earthna Award It is designed to be accessible and transparent. We encourage all interested parties to explore the different award categories, which will reflect the diverse facets of traditional knowledge in Cape Verde, ranging from sustainable small-scale fishing techniques to traditional medicine practices based on endemic plants. We believe that this award represents a strategic investment in the future of Cape Verde, strengthening its capacity to adapt and promoting a model of development that respects and values its roots. Your participation is a crucial step towards ensuring that the legacy of traditional knowledge continues to flourish.
The application period closes on 20 July 2026.
To access the application form and further details, please visit: https://www.earthna.qa/earthna-prize-2026
