The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the highest environmental award offered by the UN, has named Supriya Sahu as one of its 2025 Champions of the Earth. This award recognises individuals and organisations whose efforts bring about transformative change for people and the planet. Sahu, an Additional Chief Secretary of the Environment, Climate Change and Forests Department working in the State of Tamil Nadu in the category of Inspiration and Action, was recognised for her leadership and innovation in climate resilience, sustainable cooling systems, and ecosystem restoration. Her efforts have led to increased forest cover, the creation of millions of green jobs, and the integration of heat-adaptive solutions into architecture and infrastructure—benefiting millions and serving as a global example of climate action.
What is the Key Role of Supriya Sahu?
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Supriya Sahu is one of the important heads of the Tamil Nadu Environment, Climate Change and Forests Department in the position of Additional Chief Secretary.
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She spearheads the big climate projects such as sustainable cooling, heat-action planning and environmental restoration.
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She is promoting innovative green initiatives that can enhance forest cover, biodiversity, and community building.
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She is working on a scalable solution to climate problems, which is benefiting millions of individuals in Tamil Nadu.
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She ensures that there is effective policy implementation, which leads to sustainability and long-term environmental protection.
Important MCQs Based on UNEP Champions of the Earth
| Name of Exam | Year | Question | Answer |
|---|---|---|---|
| SSC CGL | 2022 | Which organisation presents the Champions of the Earth Award? | UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme) |
| UPSC Prelims | 2021 | UNEP Headquarters is located in which city? | Nairobi, Kenya |
| RRB NTPC | 2020 | In which year was the Champions of the Earth Award instituted? | 2005 |
| SSC CHSL | 2019 | The Champions of the Earth Award is given for excellence in which field? | Environmental protection and sustainability |
| CDS | 2023 | Which UN body was formed after the 1972 Stockholm Conference? | UNEP |
| UPSC Prelims | 2018 | “Global 500 Roll of Honour” was replaced by which award? | UNEP Champions of the Earth Award |
| SSC GD | 2020 | UNEP was established in which year? | 1972 |
| Railway Group D | 2021 | Who has previously received the UNEP Champions of the Earth Award? | Various global leaders/organisations |
Expected Question about UNEP Champions of the Earth 2025
Q. Statement 1: Champions of the Earth is the highest environmental honour given by the United Nations.
Statement 2: The award only recognises government leaders.
A. Only Statement 1 is correct
B. Only Statement 2 is correct
C. Both are correct
D. Both are incorrect
Answer: A. Only Statement 1 is correct
Explanation: The award recognises individuals, organisations, activists, and leaders—not only governments.
Q. Consider the following statements:
Statement 1: Climate adaptation and nature restoration may dominate 2025 nominations.
Statement 2: The award is given every two years.
A. Both statements are correct
B. Only Statement 1 is correct
C. Only Statement 2 is correct
D. Both statements are incorrect
Answer: B. Only Statement 1 is correct
Explanation: The award is given annually, not biennially.
Q. How many categories are commonly used in the Champions of the Earth Award?
A. 2
B. 4
C. 6
D. 10
Answer: B. 4
Explanation: UNEP typically uses four key categories each year.
Q. The Champions of the Earth Award is linked to which SDG?
A. SDG 3
B. SDG 7
C. SDG 13
D. SDG 4
Answer: C. SDG 13 – Climate Action
Explanation: The award supports global climate and sustainability initiatives.
Q. Which UN body presents the Champions of the Earth Award?
A. UNESCO
B. UNEP
C. UNDP
D. WHO
Answer: B. UNEP
Explanation: This is the UN’s highest environmental award, given by UNEP.
Conclusion
Supriya Sahu was a UNEP Champion of the Earth 2025 winner, indicating her influence on the climate issue and environmental management. Her creative sustainability projects, forest retaining, and heat-resistance demonstrate the increasing role of India in ecological development of the world and inspire more powerful and community-focused approaches to the realisation of a greener future.
