Birkbeck has launched the Climate & Environment Prize 2026, an EPQ-aligned challenge that invites Year 12 students to submit creative or research-based work on climate change, biodiversity, conservation, sustainability and environmental futures. The Prize is part of the annual Birkbeck Climate Festival, which will take place from 17 to 19 March 2026.
What is it?
For the second year, we are hosting a fantastic opportunity for Year 12 students to enter one of a range of creative and research-based projects on the following themes:
- Climate Justice & Inequality
- Futures & Adaptation
- Nature & Biodiversity
- Energy & Transition
- Youth, Community & Voice
Entries must be submitted individually and may take the form of standalone work or an early-stage Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) component, such as a chapter, artefact, or research task.
Prize Categories
- Best Research or Analytical Project (essays, reports, small-scale research, data-led work)
- Best Creative or Artistic Response (artwork, poetry, performance, creative writing)
- Best Digital or Media Submission (short film, podcast, digital artefact)
- Best Community, Campaign, or Action Project (campaigns, conservation initiatives, community work)
- Commendations for Notable Achievement (a flexible category allowing judges to recognise further strong submissions)
What are the prizes?
- Each named category winner receives a £50-75 book voucher
- Commended students receive a £25 book voucher
(Exact number of category winners can vary depending on volume and diversity of entries.)
Additional Non-Monetary Opportunities
Selected winners and commendations may also be invited to:
- Present or display their work at the Birkbeck Climate Festival (17–19 March 2026)
- Take part in a short online feedback session with members of the Environmental Education Team
- Attend a 20–30-minute meeting with a Programme Director for personalised academic or UCAS guidance
- Have their work featured on Birkbeck’s website, social media, or Climate Festival materials
Submission Formats
Formats could be one of the following:
- Essays or reports (approx. 1,500–2,000 words) )
- Scientific investigations or small-scale research projects
- Policy proposals or analytical studies
- Artwork, poetry, or performance pieces
- Short films, podcasts, or digital artefacts (3–5 minutes)
- Community or campaign projects
- Biodiversity or conservation initiatives.
All submissions must be sent to: env-ed@bbk.ac.uk. Submissions may be sent as attachments or via shareable links.
Deadline for Entries
Monday 16 February 2026. Winners will be notified ahead of Birkbeck Climate Festival (17–19 March 2026).
“This competition is about recognising the creativity, curiosity and environmental leadership already emerging among young people,” said Dr Steve Willey, Co-Academic Director of Environmental Education Projects. “We want to give students a platform to share ideas and connect with university researchers.”