Applications are now open for the 2026 RELX Environmental Challenge, a global competition supporting innovative projects that improve access to clean water, sanitation, and ocean sustainability solutions.
Since its launch in 2011, the RELX Environmental Challenge has recognised individuals and organisations developing practical environmental solutions with strong community impact and long-term sustainability.
The competition awards a $50,000 prize to the first-place winner and $25,000 to the second-place winner. In addition, winners receive one year of free access to ScienceDirect, RELX’s scientific research database containing hundreds of thousands of environmental science publications.
RELX Environmental Challenge Focus Areas
The 2026 RELX Environmental Challenge is open to projects in two major categories: Clean Water or Sanitation and Ocean Sustainability.
Clean Water and Sanitation Projects
Projects submitted under this category must improve sustainable access to safe water or strengthen sanitation systems in vulnerable communities.
Organisers are seeking solutions that address water scarcity, sanitation access, hygiene challenges, and environmental health concerns through scalable and practical innovations.
Ocean Sustainability Projects
The ocean category focuses on initiatives that support marine ecosystems, ocean health, and environmental resilience.
Eligible projects may include innovations in marine conservation, ocean pollution reduction, coastal protection, and sustainable ocean-based environmental solutions.
Eligibility Requirements for the RELX Environmental Challenge
The RELX Environmental Challenge is open to both individuals and organisations operating in the non-profit and for-profit sectors worldwide.
Applicants must present projects that demonstrate clear environmental impact and community engagement. Furthermore, organisers stated that early-stage projects are strongly preferred.
Evaluation Criteria for Submitted Projects
According to the organisers, all submissions will be assessed based on several core factors.
Projects must:
- Demonstrate innovation and practical applicability
- Show scalability, sustainability, and replicability
- Promote equity and non-discrimination in access
- Positively impact communities and stakeholders
- Encourage strong local participation and engagement
The competition aims to identify environmental solutions that can deliver measurable and lasting impact across different regions and communities.
Funding and Prize Structure
Each winning project will receive a single payment of up to $75,000 in funding support.
The first-place project will receive $50,000, while the second-place project will receive $25,000.
Winners will also gain complimentary one-year access to ScienceDirect, providing valuable scientific resources and environmental research materials to support further project development.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the 2026 RELX Environmental Challenge is July 12, 2026.
Interested applicants can visit the official RELX Environmental Challenge webpage for full application details and submission guidelines.
