The city’s integrated clean-air approach has helped cut air pollution by 24% since 2018, improving conditions for more than seven million residents.
ICLEI is proud to share that Bogotá, Colombia, has been awarded the Earthshot Prize 2025 in the Clean Our Air category, recognizing the city’s leadership in improving air quality and creating healthier urban environments. Winners were announced on 5 November at the Earthshot Prize ceremony in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Bogotá was recognized for its integrated approach to cleaner air, prioritizing walking and cycling, expanding green public spaces, introducing clean technology in the public transportation system, and enforcing stricter restrictions for freight vehicles. Together, these measures have contributed to a 24% reduction in air pollution since 2018.
“This prize recognizes the efforts of an entire city, of several administrations and many, many people who have worked for years to innovate so all those who live in Bogotá can breathe better air, have a more sustainable public transportation system and a greener city,” said Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán during the award ceremony. Watch his speech.
Founded in 2020 by HRH Prince William, the Earthshot Prize is one of the world’s most prestigious environmental awards. Each year, it honors five solutions across five categories: Clean Our Air, Fix Our Climate, Protect and Restore Nature, Revive Our Oceans, and Build a Waste-Free World, with £1 million awarded to each winner to help scale impact.
This year’s winners were selected from nearly 2,500 nominations submitted by a global network of 575 nominators across 72 countries, underscoring the significance of Bogotá’s achievement.
In addition, ICLEI also congratulates ICLEI Member Guangzhou, China, which was a finalist in the Clean Our Air category, recognized for major investments in electric public transportation that have improved air quality for millions of residents.
These recognitions underscore the power of city-led climate action and ICLEI’s commitment to supporting local governments that are delivering practical, people-centered solutions for a healthier planet.
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