A Significant Announcement in Sustainability
On June 3, 2025, at a distinguished event in Miami, the Nobel Sustainability Trust Foundation (NST) unveiled that Doha, Qatar, will host the highly regarded Sustainability Awards in 2026. This announcement not only underscores Qatar's increasing commitment to global environmental solutions but also cements Miami's emerging role as a prominent player in the global climate dialogue. The event took place at the historic Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables and was attended by key figures in South Florida and international advocates of sustainability.
Celebrating Leadership and Innovation
The awards ceremony on December 4, 2025, at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens will honor global pioneers who excel in areas such as leadership in implementation, biodiversity, and smart sustainable city solutions. The Mayor of Miami-Dade County, Daniella Levine Cava, granted permission for the use of the historic Vizcaya estate, enhancing the evening's significance.
During the announcement, attendees received an official letter from Qatar's Minister of Municipal Affairs, S.E. Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah Al Attiya, confirming Doha's role as the 2026 host city. “From the shores of Miami to the deserts of Qatar, we witness the universal need for sustainable solutions,” stated Peter Nobel, Chairman of NST and a member of the Nobel family. This transition between continents reflects NST's dedication to making a global impact.
Qatar's Commitment to Sustainability
Qatar is on track to become a global leader in sustainability through bold national initiatives and strategic long-term planning. Central to this progress is the Department of Municipal Affairs, which has propelled efforts to build smart cities, improve waste management systems, and integrate sustainability into the daily operations of urban areas. Notably, during the FIFA World Cup, the department showcased its operational capabilities through a comprehensive, environmentally friendly logistics approach. This included effective waste minimization, intelligent transport coordination, and sustainable public services. Such achievements have set new standards in the region and emphasize Qatar's broader commitment to generate 20% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030, preserve ecosystems, and reduce emissions as outlined in its third national development strategy (2024-2030).
The public's engagement in sustainability is exemplified by the over one million participants in Qatar Sustainability Week. This reflects the inclusive approach the Department has adopted, positioning it as a model for sustainable governance in the Middle East.
A Powerful Presence
The event in Miami attracted numerous leaders, including Florida State Representative Vicki Lopez, Miami-Dade County Commissioners Daniella Cohen Higgins and Roberto Gonzalez, and several city commissioners and business leaders. Their unified presence emphasized the bipartisan commitment of the region to sustainability initiatives.
About the Nobel Sustainability Trust Foundation
Founded by members of the Nobel family, the NST Foundation promotes sustainable development by recognizing outstanding contributions, fostering scientific collaboration, and initiating a global dialogue. The foundation aims to align human progress with the well-being of the planet by honoring individuals and institutions whose work inspires transformative change.
About the Sustainability Award
The Nobel Sustainability Trust’s Sustainability Awards are presented annually in three categories: leadership in implementation, outstanding research and development, and significant contributions to sustainability medals. Academic laureates are nominated by two independent, internationally composed juries under the academic auspices of the Institute for Advanced Study at the Technical University of Munich, ensuring a rigorous evaluation and a global perspective. Each year, the awards focus on different areas, including energy, water, biodiversity, smart city solutions, and leadership in implementation.
Through these awards, NST continues to inspire innovative solutions that drive sustainability forward. With the eyes of the world turning towards Doha, the stage is set for a transformative celebration of sustainability and innovation in 2026.