FAQ’s
What is the Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement?
The Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement (the Tyler Prize) is the world’s most prestigious annual environmental award.* Often called the “Nobel Prize for the environment,” the Prize is awarded annually to scientists, ecologists, economists, policymakers, or organizations that have delivered environmental solutions with measurable global impact. Recipients of the Tyler Prize are honored in a ceremony in which they are presented with the Tyler Prize medallion, plaque, and an award of USD $250,000.
The prize, which the University of Southern California administers, was established in 1973 by John and Alice Tyler. The Tylers were dedicated conservationists, philanthropists, and animal lovers who sought to make a difference by raising the profile of those working on behalf of the environment. Read more about the history of the prize here.
Who can be nominated for the prize?
Any individual or organization from any part of the world that has worked to deliver global solutions for environmental impact may be nominated for the Prize. But please remember that self nominations are not accepted.
What are the eligibility criteria for nominations?
The work of nominees is expected to:
- be based on strong science, including natural and/or social sciences; and
- demonstrate measurable and scalable impact(s) on policy and/or practice.
Other factors that will be considered in the review of nominations include how diverse perspectives are integrated in an environmental policy and practice; how global inequalities are addressed; how environmental justice is promoted; and how younger generations are engaged. Additional nomination information can be found here.
Who is not eligible to be nominated?
Examples of work for which the Tyler Prize is not awarded include:
- Grassroots organizations working to deliver local/ regional solutions
- Organizations or individuals whose singular purpose is to raise awareness on an issue
- The organization of large meetings, summits, or conferences
- Posthumously
In which geographical region should nominees be located?
Nominations and nominees are welcome from any part of the world.
Can anyone submit a nomination for the Prize?
Yes. Please find details on how to nominate here.
Is it possible to nominate someone posthumously for the Prize?
No, the Prize is not awarded posthumously.
When do nominations for the Prize open/close?
Details of the call for nominations will be announced on our website and through our social media channels. Please keep an eye out for announcements.
Can I nominate myself?
No, self nominations are not accepted. Nominations should be submitted by an individual, an individual in an organization or an organization that is very familiar with the nominees’ work and accomplishments.
Does the rule of no self-nominations also apply to organizations?
The nomination for an organization should come from someone outside of the organization, or someone that works in close collaboration with the organization.
Do nominations for an organization have to be received by another organization?
No, nominations could be sent by an individual/ group of individuals who has worked closely with the organization in question.
Will it impact our nomination if the nominated organization is publicly-funded?
No, this will not have an impact on the assessment of the nomination.
Can I nominate more than one individual or organization?
Each nominator may submit only one nomination per cycle, however it is possible to submit a joint or co-nomination of individuals or organizations.
Does it matter who submits the nomination?
The nominator should be someone who really knows the candidate’s work, such as a colleague or a group of colleagues. The credentials or standing of the nominator is not in itself considered when assessing the nominations.
What information should I have ready before submitting a nomination?
- Full names, addresses, home or cell phone (preferred), etc. of the nominee and nominator.
- A one to two-page summary of the individual’s or organization’s accomplishments, discovery, improvement, or other contribution for which the award is proposed, including links to appropriate websites and works.
- A list of three to five individuals who would be ready to provide reference letters if the nomination is advanced to the shortlist. (please include a contact name, organization, and email address).
- For individual nominations, a short Curriculum Vitae (CV) should be submitted and include links (if available) to appropriate publications, reports, and websites referencing the unique contribution(s) for which the nomination is being made.
- For nominations of organizations, please provide a brochure or datasheet, links to the website, and any additional information in support of the nomination.
How many pages should a short CV be and what should be included?
We would look to see CVs of between 5-7 pages in length and which should focus on noteworthy career highlights, including details of any previous significant awards, links to most impactful publications (rather than the publications themselves), membership of any national or international committees etc.
Can I submit my nomination in a language other than English?
No, nominations must be submitted in English.
How do I nominate?
Full details on how to nominate are available on the nomination procedure page.
Is it possible to submit a nomination if you don’t have access to Google or Google Docs?
Please write to the Tyler Prize Administrator should you have any problems accessing the nomination form.
Are nominees notified that they have been nominated?
No, not by the Tyler Prize Administration.
Who sits on the jury for the Prize?
The Prize is awarded by the Tyler Prize Executive Committee and Advisory Council. Read more about the Executive Committee and Advisory Council here.
How does the committee decide on who to award the Prize?
An expert panel composed of members of the Tyler Prize Executive Committee and Advisory Council undertakes careful consideration of all eligible nominations to reach a unanimous decision on the chosen laureate.
Can I find out who has been nominated for the Prize?
No, all nominations are treated confidentially.
What happens if I win the prize?
The chosen nominee(s) will be notified of their award by a representative of the Tyler Prize Executive Committee. This usually takes place in November of each year. Arrangements will then be made with the laureate for the creation of media assets and events to support the announcement of the award. All information is embargoed until the official announcement is made, typically in February of each year. The award is officially conferred at a special ceremony, which usually takes place in April or May of each year, either at the University of Southern California, USA, or at another location.
Can a nominee be considered for the Prize more than once?
Yes. Approved nominations are considered for three consecutive award cycles. Nominators will have the opportunity to update any information included in previous nominations or provide new materials when a new nomination cycle opens. An individual or organization can only be awarded the Tyler Prize once in a lifetime.
For general information on the nomination procedure or candidacy please contact:
Amber Brown, Administrator
+1 213-740-6559
amber@tylerprize.org
*Citation: Meho, L. I. (2020). Highly prestigious international academic awards and their impact on university rankings. Quantitative Science Studies, 1(2), 824–848. https://doi.org/10.1162/qss_a_00045