Recognising knowledge, cooperation and action for the future of the Amazon
The Context: A Biome Under Siege
The Amazon rainforest, one of the planet’s most important carbon sinks and a reservoir of unparalleled biodiversity, faces a convergence of existential threats. Deforestation, driven by illegal logging, agricultural expansion and mining, continues to undermine the forest’s integrity. At the same time, the escalating climate crisis is increasing the frequency and severity of extreme droughts and wildfires, pushing the ecosystem dangerously close to a tipping point.
This degradation threatens Indigenous peoples and local communities, endangers countless species and contributes to the destabilisation of regional and global climate systems.
Although the challenges are immense, an effective response requires a multifaceted approach grounded in rigorous science, innovative education and collaborative action. Interdisciplinary research into the hydrology, ecology and socioeconomic dynamics of the Amazon has never been more urgent. Protecting the forest requires not only effective monitoring but also a fundamental transformation in how societies interact with it—a transformation driven by knowledge, cooperation and action.
The Amazon Programme Award
In response to the urgent need to document, promote and honour the work of individuals and institutions committed to the conservation and sustainable development of the Amazon region, the Research and Transfer Centre for Sustainable Development and Climate Change Management and the German-Brazilian Science and Technology Network (GERBRAS-SCIENCENET) are pleased to present the Amazon Programme Award.
This initiative seeks to recognise, document and promote exceptional work undertaken by organisations and individuals in Brazil, Germany and other parts of the world that contributes to the study, conservation and sustainable development of the Amazon region.
The Award acknowledges that the future of the Amazon depends on close cooperation among researchers, educators, universities, local and Indigenous communities, civil society organisations, public authorities and the private sector.
Award Categories
- Amazon Programme Research Award
For outstanding scientific research that contributes to understanding, conserving and sustainably managing Amazonian ecosystems. - Amazon Programme Teaching Award
For innovative educational programmes implemented by schools that foster environmental awareness, knowledge and action among children and young people. - Amazon Programme Higher Education Award
For universities and other higher education institutions implementing impactful curricula, research initiatives or sustainability projects focused on the Amazon region. - Amazon Programme Outreach Award
For community-based and public-engagement initiatives that empower local populations, raise awareness and demonstrate tangible conservation or sustainable-development outcomes. - Amazon Programme Industrial Cooperation Award
For companies and industry partners demonstrating exemplary practices in areas such as environmental conservation, sustainable sourcing, responsible supply-chain management or the application of technologies that contribute to protecting the Amazon rainforest.
Registration and Submission Procedures
Applications are welcomed from individuals and organisations in Brazil, Germany and other countries whose work is directly related to the Amazon region.
The Summary (up to 300 words) may briefly explain the initiative’s objectives, activities, target groups, geographical scope, principal achievements and contribution to the protection or sustainable development of the Amazon region.
Submit your application by 20 December 2026.
Application processing fee
R$1,000 or €250 per application. This contribution supports the administrative and organisational costs of the Award and helps ensure the programme’s continuity.
The Award Ceremony
The Amazon Programme Awards will be officially presented during a global online ceremony pre-scheduled for March 2027. The virtual format will enable broad international participation and reinforce our shared commitment to the future of the Amazon. Scientists, educators, representatives of Indigenous and local communities, policymakers, civil society organisations and private-sector professionals will be invited to participate and celebrate the dedication, innovation and achievements of the award recipients.
Questions?
Contact GERBRAS Team at