The RestorLife Awards 2026 - presented by Restor and the G20 Global Land Initiative - celebrate exceptional dedication to positive environmental action and responsible business leadership. This category recognises businesses that have operationalised their sustainability plans and can demonstrate proven, scalable impact on nature.
Applications are open May 7–31, 2026. The winner will receive honorary recognition by Restor and the G20 GLI, a global case study, and an exclusive invitation to attend UNCCD COP17 2026 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
For inspiration, see how leading businesses are already driving change with our incredible cohort of 2025 Finalists. Your business could be the next to lead on a global stage. Apply now LINK.
Browse the questions below to understand the timeline, eligibility, award criteria, and what to prepare before you apply.
Still have questions? Reach out to us directly at support@restor.eco - we're happy to help.
1. Overview
What is the Responsible Business Leadership Award?
The Responsible Business Leadership Award recognises large businesses that are actively addressing their dependence and impact on nature, whether by investing in restoration, supporting land stewards, or embedding nature-positive practices into their core operations. It is part of the RestorLife Awards 2026, co-hosted by Restor and the G20 Global Land Initiative.
Who presents this award?
The award is jointly presented by Restor and the G20 Global Land Initiative (GLI), established by the G20 to reduce land degradation by 50% by 2040.
Is there a cash prize?
No. Unlike the NGO category, this award does not include a cash prize. The winner receives honorary recognition, a global case study, and an exclusive invitation to attend UNCCD COP17 2026 in Mongolia.
What does the winner receive?
The selected winner receives:
The G20 GLI Leadership Award: honorary recognition by Restor and the G20 Global Land Initiative
A global case study highlighting their impact, shared across Restor's network and international channels
Recognition at an international level, including at UNCCD COP17 2026 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
What is UNCCD COP17 and why does it matter?
UNCCD COP17 is the 17th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, taking place in 2026 in Mongolia. It is one of the world's foremost gatherings on land, restoration, and sustainability. An invitation to attend provides an exceptional platform to share insights, network with global leaders, and amplify your organisation's impact on a truly international stage.
2. Timeline
What is the timeline for the Award?
Applications Open (7–31 May): Submit your application before the deadline to be considered.
Selection Process (1–30 June): The evaluation committee reviews applications and selects the winner. Finalists will be informed before 30 June 2026.
Announcement of Winner (17–28 August): The winner is announced at UNCCD COP17 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, in partnership with the G20 Global Land Initiative.
When is the submission deadline?
The deadline is 31 May 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted.
3. Eligibility and Submissions
Who is eligible to apply?
Large businesses that actively address their dependence and impact on nature are eligible to apply. This includes businesses that invest in nature, support land stewards, or integrate restoration into their operations. Applicants must be able to demonstrate proven, scalable impact and show that their sustainability plans have been operationalised - not just planned.
How do I submit an application?
Submissions are made online via the Restor platform [LINK]. You will need to apply as an organisation on the platform.
Can I submit via email?
No. Submissions are only accepted online via [this link].
I'm facing issues with the site upload. What should I do?
Start by reviewing our step-by-step guide for adding a site to the map. If the problem continues, contact our technical support team at support@restor.eco with a detailed description of the issue (including screenshots if possible). We'll respond as soon as we can.
I'm facing an issue with the organisation profile creation. How can I resolve it?
Ensure all required fields are filled and the information is accurate. If the issue persists, contact support@restor.eco.
The website is not accepting my images or logo. What should I do?
Check the file format and size requirements (e.g., JPEG/PNG, max 5MB). If the issue continues, contact support@restor.eco.
I have multiple sites to upload. How can I do that?
If you have five or fewer sites, you can upload them individually by repeating the drawing or upload process for each site directly on the platform. For more than five sites, Restor offers a bulk upload process. Share your site files with the team at support@restor.eco and we'll guide you through the process. See the detailed bulk upload guide here.
Can I edit my submitted entry?
Once submitted, entries cannot be edited directly through the platform. If you need to update your submission, contact support@restor.eco as soon as possible with your submission details and the changes you'd like to make.
I accidentally submitted before proofreading. What should I do?
Contact our support team at support@restor.eco with your submission details, and we'll assist you.
4. Evaluation
How are applications assessed?
The evaluation committee assesses applications across four criteria:
Proven Impact: Evidence of restoration and biodiversity results.
Long-term Vision: Sustainability beyond the award period.
Community Involvement: Deep engagement with local stakeholders.
Responsible Stewardship: Demonstrating a commitment to ethical practices and global best practices.
Who is on the 2026 Evaluation Committee?
The 2026 RestorLife Awards Evaluation Committee brings together leading voices in conservation, restoration, and environmental advocacy.
Princess Marie-Esméralda of Belgium
a dedicated environmentalist and journalist known for her tireless activism in climate justice and indigenous rights
Matthew Monahan
Founder of Ma Earth
Tony Simmons
Senior Expert on Land Restoration, UNCCD-G20 Global Land Initiative
5. Media and Promotion
How can I promote my application or the awards?
Use the official hashtag #RestorLife2026 and share your story on social media. Tag us @Restor Eco on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.
Can I sponsor or partner with the awards?
Yes! Sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact media@restor.eco for details.
6. Recognition and Post-Award
Why apply?
Every applicant receives access to a free profile on Restor. Last year the awards reached a global audience of 2.1 million, a significant opportunity to gain visibility for your business's environmental work and demonstrate leadership to customers, investors, and partners alike.
What recognition does the winner receive beyond the award ceremony?
The winner receives a global case study produced by Restor and the G20 GLI, shared across our international networks and channels, and is recognised at UNCCD COP17 in Mongolia, one of the world's leading platforms on land and sustainability.
How can I stay updated on future awards?