PRESS RELEASE - Six finalists nominated for ETF Green Skills Award 2026
Outstanding initiatives from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, Jordan, Nepal, Peru and Uzbekistan have been shortlisted for the ETF Green Skills Award 2026. The projects were selected from 369 applications from 94 countries, highlighting innovative approaches to green skills development and sustainability.
Turin, 3 June 2026 – Today, the European Training Foundation (ETF) announced the six finalists of the 2026 ETF Green Skills Award, which celebrates inspiring initiatives that contribute to the green transition, and the move towards more environmentally sustainable, inclusive and resilient societies. The chosen projects demonstrate how skills development can drive real change, from protecting fragile ecosystems and promoting circular economies to empowering young people and communities.
This year’s finalists reflect a wide range of approaches, combining local knowledge, technical innovation and social inclusion to address global environmental challenges. They illustrate green skills’ capacity to drive job creation, strengthen communities and support the shift to climate-neutral economies.
Pilvi Torsti, Director of the ETF, commented: “Across continents and contexts, these six initiatives demonstrate that the green transition is no longer an abstract ambition: it is already well underway, driven by communities, educators and innovators. The 369 applications received from 94 countries underscore the central role of skills in climate action, enabling people to adapt, innovate and lead change in ways that are inclusive, practical and sustainable.”
The ETF Green Skills Award reflects the European Union’s broader commitment to sustainable development, namely within the framework of the Union of Skills and Clean Industrial Deal. These flagship EU initiatives aim to strengthen competitiveness and equip people with skills needed for the green and digital transitions, supporting quality jobs, innovation and environmental sustainability.
Finalists of the 2026 ETF Green Skills Award
- Bosnia and Herzegovina: Sugar on Top - Building a circular fashion ecosystem through upcycling, zero-waste production and artisanal skills.
- Cyprus: Tiganokinisi (The Frying Pan Movement), AKTI Project and Research Centre - Turning used cooking oil into biodiesel funding for school sustainability projects, engaging over 100,000 students annually.
- Jordan: German Energy Academy (GEA) - Training a new generation of renewable energy professionals through hands-on, inclusive programmes reaching women and refugees.
- Nepal: Doko Recyclers Repair Revolution Workshop & Training (RRWT) - Transforming e-waste into skills and jobs by promoting repair culture and circular economy practices.
- Peru: Young Glacier Ambassadors, Young Peruvian Leaders - Training youth from mountain communities in citizen science and environmental leadership to protect glaciers.
- Uzbekistan: Sustainable Future Society (SFS) - A student-led environmental education programme scaling practical sustainability action across 25 schools and 25,000 people.
An international jury of ETF experts selected the finalists based on the novelty of their approach, impact and potential for replication. The final ranking (first, second and third place) will be decided via a public vote, which remains open until 30 June 2026 (13:00 CEST). The winners will be invited to the official award ceremony.
A special winner of a #ForOurPlanet category – awarded by the European Commission’s DG Environment and the European External Action Service – will be announced tomorrow during the EU Green Week.
About the ETF Green Skills Award
Launched in 2021, the ETF Green Skills Award is a global initiative recognising individuals and organisations that promote innovative approaches to green skills development. It highlights practical solutions that support circular, carbon-neutral, inclusive economies, while inspiring others through good practice.
About the European Training Foundation
The European Training Foundation (ETF) is the European Union agency that supports EU neighbouring countries in reforming education, training and labour market systems. The ETF works with nearly 30 countries – from Ukraine to the Western Balkans, from the Southern Mediterranean to Central Asia and the African Union– to strengthen the security and prosperity of Europe and its neighbours. In line with EU priorities, the ETF promotes skills for sustainable, circular and climate-neutral economies. The ETF Governing Board, chaired by Mario Nava, European Commission’s Director-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion, brings together representatives from all 27 EU Member States. The ETF is based in Italy.
Further information
Media relations
Daria Santucci, +39 366 9639638, mediarelations@etf.europa.eu