What is the 3 Billion Trees Award?
With the first award ceremony planned for 2027, the 3 Billion Trees Award will be an annual event that recognises innovative and impactful tree-planting. This award is part of the EU's ambitious commitment to plant 3 billion additional trees by 2030, as part of the EU Biodiversity and Forest Strategies.
By recognizing projects that significantly contribute to increased tree coverage and biodiversity, the award seeks to inspire a new generation of environmental stewardship and promote sustainable forest management.
New trees can complement protection policies and actions for existing forests and trees.
Why is the Award Important?
Trees play a critical role in combating climate change and preserving biodiversity.
As part of the broader EU initiative, this award highlights the importance of trees for environmental and social well-being. It supports biodiversity-friendly afforestation and reforestation efforts, contributing to ecosystem services and the removal of carbon from the atmosphere.
By shining a light on exemplary projects, we aim to boost public engagement with afforestation - including natural regeneration - and encourage the restoration of nature in line with the Nature Restoration Law.
Who is the Award for?
Each year, the award will be open to different groups and individuals, depending on the annual theme. This might include young farmers, educational institutions, NGOs, private sectors, cities, and more.
The themes will change each year to recognize different stakeholders and types of planting projects.
Details on the submission process, selection criteria for the winning projects as well as the timeline will be published on this page in due time before the application period for the 2027 award.