The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Cool Coalition has announced the formation of the Cool Champions Evaluation Committee for 2026–2027. The Committee brings together experts from academia, government, international organisations, and the sustainable development sector, supporting the implementation of the Cool Champions initiative and advancing the Global Cooling Pledge targets.
The Cool Champions initiative is designed to recognise leadership in sustainable cooling across policy, planning, implementation, and innovation. Each year, it will name three Cool Champions: one from a developed Global Cooling Pledge country or city, one from a developing country or city that is a signatory, and one unaffiliated individual demonstrating leadership in the field. The initiative is anchored in the Global Cooling Pledge, which commits signatories to reduce cooling-related emissions by 68% by 2050 while expanding equitable access to cooling.
The Evaluation Committee is tasked with reviewing nominations, applying evaluation criteria, and selecting Cool Champions through a transparent process. Members will serve a two-year term, ensuring continuity across selection cycles and maintaining diversity in geographical and sectoral representation.
Submissions for the Cool Champions 2026 cohort will open on 12 January and close on 9 March. Selected Champions will be announced on World Environment Day 2026 and presented during the Global Cooling Pledge Focal Points Meeting later that year.
