UN Environment Programme Hack for the Environment: Digital Innovation for Climate, Nature, and Pollution for Kenyans
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), in collaboration with the Action Lab under the Office of the Special Envoy on Technology for the Republic of Kenya and partners, invites young innovators in Kenya to co-create digital and data solutions addressing climate change, nature loss, and pollution and waste. Whether you’re a student, developer, environmentalist, or community changemaker, this is your opportunity to drive impact for a more resilient planet.
📝 Opportunity Details
- Date Published: July 08, 2025
- Application Deadline: July 20, 2025
- Category: Contest
- Opportunity Location: Kenya
- Eligible Locations: Kenya
🌟 Challenge Statement / Your Mission
Develop a data-driven solution — such as a predictive model, public API, or decision-support tool — that integrates at least one aspect of the triple planetary crisis (climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and waste). Use publicly available or provided datasets to deliver actionable insights that support Kenyan frontline decision-makers and advance UNEA-7’s vision for a resilient planet.
🎁 Benefits
Participants in the Hack for the Environment will enjoy the following benefits:
-
Expert Mentorship & Masterclasses:
Learn directly from specialists at the United Nations, the Government of Kenya, global tech firms, and top academic institutions. This is a unique chance to engage with leaders shaping the future of digital and environmental innovation. -
High-Level Networking:
Connect with global experts, policymakers, and potential collaborators across sectors. -
Recognition & Certification:
Receive official certificates, LinkedIn achievement badges, and opportunities for international recognition. -
UN Showcase Opportunity:
The top 5 teams will present their solutions at the United Nations in Nairobi and participate in structured networking sessions with high-level stakeholders. -
Path to Implementation:
Outstanding ideas may be selected for further development within UNEP’s Digital Accelerator Lab. -
Real-World Impact:
Use data and technology to tackle the triple planetary crisis and contribute to building a more sustainable and resilient future for Kenya and beyond.
✅ Eligibility Criteria
To participate in this program, you must meet the following requirements:
- Age: Kenyan residents aged 18–35 with an interest in tech and the environment.
- Team Composition: Apply individually or in a team of 4–6 members.
- Inclusivity: Participation is especially encouraged from women and persons with disabilities (PWDs).
📅 Commitment Requirements
Participants are expected to commit to the following:
- Engagement Duration: Consistent participation over four weeks (or five weeks for finalists).
- Weekly Sessions: Approximately 2 hours of structured sessions per week, plus self-organized team work.
📌 Application Process
To apply, complete the application form here.
📅 Application Deadline
The deadline to apply is July 20, 2025.
🌐 Additional Information
For more details, visit the official UN Environment Programme Hack for the Environment page.
Take this opportunity to innovate, collaborate, and make a real-world impact for a sustainable future! 🌱
- Expert Mentorship & Masterclasses: Learn directly from specialists at the United Nations, the Government of Kenya, global tech firms, and top academic institutions.
- High-Level Networking: Connect with global experts, policymakers, and potential collaborators across sectors.
- Recognition & Certification: Receive official certificates, LinkedIn achievement badges, and opportunities for international recognition.
- UN Showcase Opportunity: The top 5 teams will present their solutions at the United Nations in Nairobi.
- Path to Implementation: Outstanding ideas may be selected for further development within UNEP’s Digital Accelerator Lab.
- Real-World Impact: Use data and technology to tackle the triple planetary crisis and contribute to building a more sustainable and resilient future for Kenya and beyond.
