The European Training Foundation (ETF) has announced the six finalists of the 2026 ETF Green Skills Award, selected from 369 applications across 94 countries. The award, launched in 2021, recognises innovative initiatives that contribute to the green transition by developing skills for environmentally sustainable, inclusive and resilient societies. The finalists, announced on 3 June 2026, include projects from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, Jordan, Nepal, Peru and Uzbekistan, covering areas such as circular fashion, biodiesel from used cooking oil, renewable energy training, e-waste repair, glacier protection and student-led environmental education.
Pilvi Torsti, Director of the ETF, stated that the green transition is already well underway, driven by communities, educators and innovators, and that the high number of applications underscores the central role of skills in climate action. The award reflects the EU's broader commitment to sustainable development, particularly within the Union of Skills and Clean Industrial Deal initiatives, which aim to equip people with skills for the green and digital transitions.
An international jury of ETF experts selected the finalists based on novelty, impact and potential for replication. The final ranking (first, second and third place) will be determined by a public vote, open until 30 June 2026 at 13:00 CEST. Winners will be invited to an official award ceremony. Additionally, a special #ForOurPlanet category winner, awarded by the European Commission's DG Environment and the European External Action Service, will be announced during EU Green Week.
The ETF is the EU agency that supports neighbouring countries in reforming education, training and labour market systems, working with nearly 30 countries from Ukraine to Central Asia. Its Governing Board is chaired by Mario Nava, European Commission's Director-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion.
← Atlas › News › Education, Youth, Sport and Culture