Green Campus Competition
About
The Green Campus Competition is an initiative open to undergraduate students across the Gulf region. It empowers youth leaders to develop innovative, sustainability-focused solutions that transform university campuses, in alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The competition raises awareness, promotes resource efficiency, and fosters practical action within educational institutions — inspiring the next generation of sustainability champions.
GOALS
The Goals of the Competition
Raise Awareness
Increase awareness among students about the UN SDGs and their importance in addressing global sustainability challenges.
Promote Innovation
Encourage students to develop creative and innovative solutions to make educational campuses more environmentally friendly.
Engage Collaboration
Foster collaboration among students, faculty, and staff to implement sustainable projects on campus.
Inspire Action
Motivate students to take tangible actions that contribute to achieving one or more UN SDGs.
Who Can Apply
01
- Undergraduate students currently enrolled at universities across the Gulf region.
02
- Passionate about sustainability, innovation, and making a real difference on their campuses.
03
- Teams of up to 3 students (interdisciplinary teams are encouraged).
04
- Students with creative ideas aligned with one or more of the competition's focus SDGs.
Please note:
Finalist teams must be able (and permitted by their institution) to participate in the in-person Pitch Day and Awards Ceremony on August 14, 2025. Khalifa University will not be covering travel or accommodation costs, and attendance is required to be eligible for prizes.
Entry Categories
Participants should submit projects that make university campuses more sustainable, aligned with one of the three focus UN SDGs for 2025
Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12)
Projects that reduce waste, increase recycling or reuse, and promote efficient resource use within campus environments.
Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11)
Initiatives that enhance campus infrastructure, accessibility, and mobility through smart, sustainable urban design and transportation options.
Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7)
Ideas that improve energy efficiency, integrate renewable energy solutions, or reduce campus carbon emissions through innovative energy management.
How To Apply
Form a team of up to 3 eligible undergraduate students.
Develop a written proposal following the submission guidelines.
Apply and submit your proposal by July 16, 2025.
Shortlisted teams will be invited to pitch their projects at the final event on August 14, 2025 in Abu Dhabi.
Judging Criteria
01
Alignment with UN SDGs
- How well does the project support the goals and targets of SDGs 11, 12, or 7?
02
Innovation and Creativity
- How original and creative is the proposed solution? Does it introduce new ideas or approaches to sustainability challenges?
03
Impact and Scalability
- What is the potential impact of the project on the campus and beyond? Can the solution be scaled up or replicated in other contexts?
04
Feasibility and Sustainability
- Is the project realistic and practical to implement? Does it offer long-term sustainability benefits?
05
Measurable Outcomes and Metrics
- Are the project’s outcomes and success metrics clearly defined and measurable? How will the impact be tracked and evaluated?
06
Presentation and Communication
- How well is the project idea communicated and presented? Is the information clear, compelling, and well-organized?
Prizes
AED 10,000
AED 7,500
AED 5,000
COMPETITION TIMELINE
16
JUN
Competition Launch & Application Opens
23
JUN
Virtual Information Session at 11am
Click here to access meeting3
JUL
Virtual Information Session at 11am
Click here to access meeting16
JUL
Application Deadline
25
JUL
5 Finalist Teams Announced
28
JUL
Virtual Pitch Information Session
14
AUG
Final Pitch Day & Awards Ceremony