Meet Supriya Sahu: The Inspiring IAS Officer Honored with UNEP’s 2025 Champions of the Earth Award

Supriya Sahu is an influential figure in India’s environmental movement. As a 1991 Indian Administrative Service officer, she currently serves as the Additional Chief Secretary for the Environment, Climate Change, and Forests Department in Tamil Nadu. Recently, she was honored with the UN Environment Programme’s 2025 Champions of the Earth Award for her outstanding leadership in climate initiatives.

Born on July 27, 1968, Sahu joined the IAS in 1991. Over the years, she has held several key positions, including roles in public broadcasting. Her work has made her a notable advocate for environmental governance, combining effective administrative skills with community engagement.

Recognizing Achievements

In December 2025, Sahu received the prestigious Champions of the Earth Award, the highest environmental accolade from the UN. She was celebrated for her proactive measures against climate change and pollution. Under her leadership, Tamil Nadu has made significant strides in sustainable cooling and ecosystem restoration, creating around 2.5 million green jobs and improving the lives of nearly 12 million people.

UNEP emphasized the impact of her initiatives, highlighting how they’ve advanced urban heat adaptation and extensive ecosystem restoration. These efforts reflect a growing global emphasis on sustainable development, especially in the context of climate change.

Key Environmental Initiatives

Sahu has been pivotal in launching Tamil Nadu’s “Green Missions,” including the Climate Change Mission and Wetlands Mission. These programs focus on afforestation, coastal protection, and smart adaptation planning. Between 2021 and 2023, her efforts led to the planting of over 100 million trees and the establishment of new reserve forests.

Additionally, Tamil Nadu has significantly increased its mangrove cover and Ramsar-listed wetlands, showcasing the state’s commitment to preserving biodiversity. Sahu’s work has also resulted in funding for the protection of endangered species, highlighting the intersection of environmental policy and wildlife conservation.

Innovative Cooling Solutions

Sahu is also leading projects focused on sustainable cooling in urban areas like Chennai. Her initiatives include developing climate-sensitive urban designs, such as shaded walkways and cool roofing. These measures are crucial in protecting vulnerable populations from extreme heat, a pressing issue in many densely populated cities.

Legacy and Impact

Through her groundbreaking work, Sahu has positioned Tamil Nadu as a frontrunner in state-level climate action. Her ability to implement local solutions that align with global environmental goals demonstrates the power of strong governance. By earning the 2025 Champions of the Earth Award, Sahu joins a distinguished group of global leaders, emphasizing the importance of regional efforts in the broader landscape of environmental governance.

As public awareness around climate issues grows, the strategies employed by leaders like Sahu will be essential in shaping a sustainable future.

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