WIN WIN Gothenburg Sustainability Award: a global beacon for sustainable change

WIN WIN Gothenburg Sustainability Award: a global beacon for sustainable change | Photo: Nikos Plegas

Since its foundation in 2000, the WIN WIN Gothenburg Sustainability Award has become one of the world’s most respected honours in the field of sustainable development. Created through an alliance of politics, business, and academia in Gothenburg, Sweden, the Award recognises individuals, organisations, and movements whose actions bring long-term benefits to people and the planet.

A legacy of international influence

The Award reflects a long tradition of acknowledging pioneering efforts that combine environmental protection, social responsibility, and economic resilience. Over the last two decades, laureates have included global leaders such as Gro Harlem Brundtland, Al Gore, and Kofi Annan, as well as influential organisations including IPBES and Kalundborg Symbiosis, and even innovative cities like Seoul, South Korea.

In 2018, the initiative expanded with the WIN WIN Youth Award, designed to empower and recognise young changemakers between the ages of 13 and 29 who are actively shaping a more sustainable future.

Structure and governance

The organisation operates from a secretariat in Gothenburg and is supported by a structured governance system composed of expert juries, a board of directors, an advisory board, and a jury nomination committee. Each year, the Award presents a theme addressing an urgent global challenge. Laureates are selected by an independent jury with expertise across academia, civil society, business, and the public sector. The main prize includes SEK 1,000,000, accompanied by a symbolic trophy crafted from materials connected to that year’s theme.

Current and upcoming themes

Recent editions have highlighted the transformative power of leadership, community engagement, and systemic innovation.The 2026 theme, Gender-Equal Societies, focuses on leaders advocating for fair laws, equitable access to resources, education opportunities, economic independence, and female leadership in climate action and community development. This theme underscores a crucial truth: gender equality is both a fundamental human right and a driving force for peace, democracy, and lasting resilience.

A platform for collaboration

Beyond the prize itself, the WIN WIN Gothenburg Sustainability Award acts as a global platform for education, dialogue, and cooperation. Through seminars, workshops, and public events, it encourages the exchange of ideas and supports the dissemination of practical solutions that contribute to a healthier planet and stronger, more equitable societies.

For more information, visit: https://www.winwinaward.org/