22 January 2014: The UN Development Programme (UNDP) has launched a global call for nominations for the Equator Prize 2014, which will focus on the theme ‘Local Climate Action.’ The Equator Prize is awarded annually to community-based initiatives that tackle poverty while advancing environmental conservation.

The Equator Prize recognizes collective action rather than individuals. Past recipients have come from over 60 countries and include agriculture and farming cooperatives, community protected areas, community managed forests, locally-managed marine areas (LMMAs) and seed banks.

“Communities across the planet are coming up with inspiring solutions to environment, climate, and poverty challenges, and we want to bring their efforts to the world’s attention,” said UNDP Administrator Helen Clark, noting that the award looks for local solutions with a big impact.

Twenty-five community-based organizations from across the developing world will receive the Equator Award 2014, which comes with a cash prize and an invitation to participate in a series of events held during the UN General Assembly (UNGA) in September 2014, including the Climate Summit.

The Equator Initiative brings together UN agencies, governments, businesses, civil society and grassroots organizations to advance local sustainable development solutions for people, nature and resilient communities. [UNDP Press Release] [Equator Prize Website]