Empowering Youth Creativity to Safeguard Our Blue Planet

Taiwan’s Ocean Conservation Administration (OCA) is now accepting proposals for the 5th Youth Innovation Challenge (YIC). Organized in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) and the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE), the challenge invites passionate individuals aged 15 to 30 to submit innovative solutions to tackle marine debris and advance environmental education.

Submissions are open now through May 31, 2026.

Five Years of Global Collaboration: Three Core Themes

Since 2021, the OCA has partnered with U.S. organizations through the Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP) to scale individual actions into global impacts. By harnessing youth creativity, the OCA hopes to raise public awareness and turn visionary ideas into concrete environmental change.

This year’s challenge focuses on three key pillars:

• 1.Reducing Waste: Minimizing personal waste and marine debris.
• 2.Community Impact: Developing marine debris management strategies that drive social change.
• 3.Global Advocacy: Promoting international marine environmental education.

Exclusive Rewards: $1,000 Grants and a Global Stage

Three winners will each receive a $1,000 USD grant. In addition to the financial award, winners will attend an official ceremony and present their proposals at an international forum. This offers a unique platform to engage with global environmental leaders and showcase young innovators on the world stage.

May 5 Online Webinar: Expert Tips for Success

To help applicants refine their proposals, the NAAEE will host a global online webinar on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 10:00 PM (Taiwan Time). The session will feature proposal writing techniques, case studies, and a live Q&A. Young innovator in Taiwan and around the world are highly encouraged to register and gain valuable insights from international experts.

【Activity & Registration Information】

50. Eligibility: Youth aged 15–30 worldwide (submissions must be in English).
50. Informational Webinar: May 5, 2026, at 10:00 PM (Taiwan Time).
50. Webinar Registration
50. Submission Deadline: May 31, 2026.