By Hassan Ismah Ayomide
The Elsevier Foundation, in partnership with Elsevier’s Chemistry journals, has officially opened applications for its Chemistry for Climate Action Challenge 2026.
This flagship initiative seeks to identify and support innovative projects that harness green and sustainable chemistry solutions to address critical environmental and social challenges in the Global South. The Challenge is a key part of the Foundation’s commitment to advancing both Climate Action (SDG 13) and Gender Equity (SDG 5) globally.
Why Participate in the Chemistry for Climate Action Challenge?
The core aim of the Chemistry for Climate Action Challenge is to empower individuals and organizations to implement practical, scientific solutions that tackle some of the developing world’s most pressing sustainability issues. Specifically, the program is looking for innovative green and sustainable chemistry solutions that can be implemented in low- and middle-income countries.
This includes projects focusing on areas like waste utilization, alternative energy sources, biodiversity and ecosystem health, climate change mitigation, community empowerment, sustainable agriculture, water resource management, and health and well-being.
Funding and benefits
- The Chemistry for Climate Action Challenge awards two prizes of $25,000 USD each to winning projects. This funding is designed to support the scale-up of early-stage projects, where the prize money represents a significantportion of the overall budget needed for implementation
- Beyond financial support, winners gain global recognition and the unique opportunity to present their groundbreaking work at the prestigious 10th Elsevier Green & Sustainable Chemistry Conference in Dresden, Germany.
Eligibility criteria
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- The Chemistry for Climate Action Challenge is open to individuals and organizations worldwide, provided their projects focus on the Global South
- Projects must incorporate a strong scientific green and sustainable chemistry component and demonstrate a clear gender component.
- Additionally, applicants from the Global South are required to have a local implementation partner to ensure community relevance and impact.
Important dates
- The submission phase is currently open and runs till October 1, 2025.
- A panel of expert reviewers will evaluate all proposals, and a shortlist of selected projects will be announced by October 30, 2025.
- Finalists will be announced on the Elsevier Foundation website on January 15, 2026.
Click HERE to apply
Explore our global opportunities page to see more.
Summary not available at this time.
