Dr. Yasmin Fouad has been awarded the Outstanding Achievement Medal 2025 by the Nobel Sustainability Trust, in recognition of her exceptional leadership in environmental governance, climate policy, and sustainable development at both the national and international levels.
The prestigious award highlights Egypt’s growing influence in global sustainability efforts and reflects international confidence in the country’s environmental leadership and reform agenda.
Landmark Environmental Reforms in Egypt
During her tenure as Minister of Environment, Dr. Yasmin Fouad led a series of transformative reforms that reshaped Egypt’s environmental policy framework. Among the most significant achievements was the passage of the Waste Management Law, which modernized waste governance, strengthened regulatory oversight, and enabled greater private-sector participation.
She also spearheaded Egypt’s first national waste-to-energy strategy, integrating circular economy principles into national planning while reducing environmental pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. In parallel, her policies contributed to measurable improvements in air quality across major Egyptian cities, addressing one of the country’s most pressing environmental challenges.
Pioneering Green Finance in the Middle East and North Africa
One of Fouad’s most internationally recognized accomplishments was Egypt’s issuance of the first sovereign green bond in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The landmark transaction positioned Egypt as a regional leader in green finance, linking financial innovation with climate action and sustainable infrastructure investment.
The green bond strengthened Egypt’s standing among global investors focused on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria and provided a replicable model for emerging economies seeking climate-aligned financing solutions.
International Recognition of Egyptian Climate Leadership
In its citation, the Nobel Sustainability Trust praised Dr. Fouad’s ability to bridge environmental policy, institutional reform, and sustainable finance, describing her work as a benchmark for environmental governance in developing economies.
The recognition underscores Egypt’s expanding role in global climate diplomacy and sustainability initiatives, particularly at a time when developing nations are navigating the dual challenges of economic growth and environmental protection.
A Broader Impact Beyond Individual Achievement
While the award honors Dr. Yasmin Fouad’s personal achievements, it also reflects the maturation of Egypt’s environmental governance model and the effectiveness of its climate and sustainability policies. The honor reinforces Egypt’s reputation as a leading voice in climate action, environmental reform, and sustainable development across Africa and the Middle East.
