Entries for the 2011 UNEP Young Environmental Journalist Award Africa are now open.

The competition is open to African journalists between 21 and 35 years old, who are based in Africa and working for local, regional or international media organizations. Freelance journalists are also welcome to apply.

The winner will be a print, radio, television or online journalist who has provided powerful new insights, challenged established thinking and greatly enhanced public understanding of the environment in Africa in 2011.

The winner will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to the USA, where they will follow a unique, “green” itinerary. The winner will travel across the country, interacting with environmental projects, leading environmental journalists, scientists and public figures.

To enter the competition, click here to submit your application form.

Entries can be submitted in French and in English.

Application deadline: 5pm (Nairobi time), 16 December 2011