9th Jena Children & Youth Environmental Award 2026 launched
The 9th Jena Children & Youth Environmental Award has been launched. Together with Stadtwerke Energie Jena-Pößneck, the environmental protection department of the city of Jena is calling on children and young people to submit their ideas, campaigns and projects for climate-friendly living.
Under this year's motto "Climate-friendly? Can we!", the competition is all about sustainable everyday living. We are looking for creative entries that show how young people actively protect their environment and take responsibility - whether at school, in a club, at home or in their free time.
Why the environmental prize is needed
"Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time. This makes it all the more important that we create an awareness of sustainable action at an early age - and make the wealth of ideas of young people visible," emphasizes Dirk Lange, Head of Urban Development and Environment. "The Children & Youth Environmental Award offers a great opportunity for this."
André Sack, Managing Director of Stadtwerke Energie Jena-Pößneck, also emphasizes the importance of the competition: "Year after year, the environmental award for children and young people shows how much creative drive and creativity there is in young people. They prove that climate protection doesn't have to wait - it starts here and now, in our city. We are happy to support this commitment because it strengthens our region and points the way to a sustainable future."
Who can take part?
The following are eligible to take part:
- Children and young people living in Jena
- Individuals, groups, school classes, kindergarten groups, initiatives or associations
In the case of group projects, the organization must be based in the city of Jena. Support from adults is permitted.
What can be submitted?
The following can be submitted
- completed projects or campaigns
- Concepts and ideas for more climate friendliness in everyday life
The application is informal, but should contain the following information
- brief project description
Number and age of participants or class level
Full address of the applicants
At least one contact person for queries
The deadline for applications is April 26, 2026.
The documents can be sent by post or email to the Environmental Protection Department:
Jena City Council - Environmental Protection Department
Am Anger 26
07743 Jena
umweltschutz@jena.de
What is there to win?
The environmental prize is endowed with a total of 2,500 euros. The prize money is donated by the city of Jena and Stadtwerke Energie Jena-Pößneck and can be split between several projects.
The award ceremony will take place as part of the Environment Day / "Your Day in Paradise" in May 2026.
Further information: https://umwelt.jena.de/de/umweltpreis