Every year, the global conversation about sustainability grows louder, and with it rises the need to acknowledge those who dedicate their lives to environmental protection. This year, the World Environment Council (WEC) has once again stepped forward to champion this cause. The organization has officially announced the opening of nominations for the 3rd Environment Civilian Awards 2026, a prestigious recognition program honoring individuals who have shaped environmental progress through years of committed service.
This announcement, shared from New Delhi by Prof. Ganesh Channa, Founder and President of WEC, marks the beginning of a new cycle of appreciation for environmental leadership. The award ceremony is scheduled to take place on January 24, 2026, bringing together some of the most influential environmental thinkers, practitioners, and innovators from India and across the world.
The WEC Environment Civilian Awards are designed to spotlight individuals who have not only contributed to environmental advancement but have done so with enduring passion and demonstrable impact. The awards span experience, leadership, public service, scientific contribution, grassroots work, and innovation, reflecting the diverse pathways through which environmental change is created.
For 2026, WEC has categorized the awards into two distinguished levels that represent the highest respect within its global environmental community.
Paryavaran Bhushan – First Degree of Honor
Paryavaran Bhushan stands as the highest civilian environmental honor conferred by WEC. This award is reserved for individuals whose contributions over at least two decades have transformed environmental understanding and strengthened sustainability efforts on a national or global scale.
Recipients of this award have typically influenced fields such as environmental governance, climate science, biodiversity conservation, sustainable technology development, eco-policy frameworks, and long-term climate leadership. Their work often extends far beyond their professional duties, inspiring systemic change and influencing the next generation of environmental champions.
Paryavaran Shri – Second Degree of Honor
Complementing the top honor is the Paryavaran Shri, awarded to individuals with a minimum of fifteen years of dedicated work in environmental protection or sustainability. This category recognizes real-world achievers who have created visible impact in areas such as environmental education, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, public health and climate mitigation, research, sanitation, eco-entrepreneurship, and community-centered conservation efforts.
The award seeks to bring national attention to those who have demonstrated relentless commitment to making everyday life greener and healthier.
Inclusivity at the Heart of the Nominations
One of the defining principles of WEC’s award program is its inclusiveness. The nominations are open to individuals from all regions, sectors, and backgrounds, reflecting the belief that environmental service is not limited to profession or geography. Whether someone is conducting research in a laboratory, leading a community cleanup program, developing clean technology, or teaching sustainability to young minds, their contribution is valued.
As Prof. Ganesh Channa stated during the announcement, these awards are meant to honor “those whose sustained efforts are helping shape a cleaner, greener, and more resilient world.” WEC’s mission is not only to recognize excellence but to encourage others to join the movement toward environmental responsibility.
Nomination Process and Key Dates
Applicants can submit their nominations through the official WEC portal, where all details and submission guidelines are available.
Nomination Deadline: December 20, 2025
Award Ceremony: January 24, 2026, New Delhi
Website: www.wec.org.in
Email: co*****@*****rg.in
Contact Numbers: +91-8130305369 / 9813357716
The Council encourages early submissions so that the evaluation committee has sufficient time to review contributions thoroughly.
About the World Environment Council
The World Environment Council is a Section 8 nonprofit organization committed to advancing sustainability, environmental protection, climate education, ESG development, and global green initiatives. WEC collaborates with governments, industries, academic bodies, and international organizations to promote environmental responsibility and cultivate leadership that aligns with global sustainability goals.
The Council’s award program has steadily become a respected platform where environmental excellence is not only recognized but celebrated at an international level.
