Mariama Mamane, UN Environment Young Champion of the Earth for Africa HD

UN Environment made Niger’s Mariama Mamane a Young Champion of the Earth for her work on a three-in-one solution to some of Africa’s biggest environmental problems: a project that uses the water hyacinth, which chokes waterways across the continent, to create sustainable energy and environmentally friendly fertilizers. Mariama, 27, who lives in Burkina Faso, is one of six winners – each representing a region of the world – awarded the new prize by UN Environment and polymer-producing giant Covestro. The award gives seed funding and mentorship to outstanding individuals, between the ages of 18 and 30, who have big ideas to protect or restore the environment.