Cranfield University has launched its search for innovations to help repair and regenerate the planet. For the second year in succession, the university has been named an Official Nominator for The Earthshot Prize – the world’s most prestigious environmental award launched by the Prince of Wales last year.

Professor Chris Fogwill, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for the School of Water, Energy and Environment at Cranfield University, said: “Climate change knows no borders and there is only one Planet Earth. It is a real privilege to be invited to return as an Official Nominator for The Earthshot Prize and seek positive solutions to climate change across the globe.”

The global challenge is based on five key areas, or “Earthshots” – ambitious goals to fix our biggest environmental problems by 2030. These are to protect and restore nature, to clean our air, to revive our oceans, to build a waste-free world, and to fix our climate.

Practical solutions to crucial research areas

Cranfield University has been selected to find and nominate solutions from businesses, organisations, individuals, and communities, which can make tangible progress towards one of these five key areas.

Submissions must be beyond the idea stage, with initial testing already completed, but may still have development requirements to be addressed.

Applications for innovators are open and applicants have until 15 January 2023 to submit their ideas. Applications can be submitted via the Cranfield University website.

Professor Phil Longhurst, Director of Partnerships and Professor of Environment and Energy Technology at Cranfield University, said: “Being selected again as an Official Nominator for this influential prize is recognition of the innovation and world-changing research that takes place at Cranfield University. Playing a role in finding practical solutions to help restore and protect our planet is a wonderful privilege, and something we are truly passionate about.”

Specialists in climate change

More than 300 organisations from across 80 countries have been appointed nominators. Cranfield’s expertise in climate change research across disciplines will be drawn on with a cross-university panel, including external experts, sifting through the solutions and deciding which best meets the criteria to win an Earthshot Prize. Those selected will go through to The Earthshot Prize’s full assessment process.

One winner in each of the five categories will be awarded a £1 million prize to develop their solution, and be given support from The Earthshot Prize network of mentors, funders, businesses, governments and NGOs.

Cranfield University is at the forefront of sustainability research. For more information, please visit our website to find out about our Sustainable Development Goals.