Film Independent announced Tuesday that it is partnering with The Redford Center to create a new Spirit Awards honor recognizing narrative film and television projects that address environmental issues through storytelling.
The Robert Redford Environmental Vision Award will be presented to a narrative feature film or television work that incorporates environmental themes into its story, according to Film Independent, the nonprofit organization that produces the annual Film Independent Spirit Awards.
Eligible projects may explore topics including climate change, environmental justice, conservation, Indigenous and ancestral environmental practices, biodiversity protection and sustainability, organizers said. Works featuring lead characters whose stories are shaped by environmental issues will also be considered.
“We are thrilled to partner with The Redford Center to launch the Robert Redford Environmental Vision Award, celebrating the power of independent filmmakers to inspire hope and real action through storytelling,” Shawn Davis, executive producer of the Film Independent Spirit Awards, said in a statement.
Jill Tidman, executive director of The Redford Center, said the award honors the legacy of Redford.
“Robert Redford believed fiercely in the power of storytelling to alter how people see the world, and championed the independent filmmakers bold enough to bring those stories to life,” Tidman said. “This award honors his legacy by recognizing exceptional storytelling that deepens our understanding of environmental challenges while inspiring action.”
According to organizers, judges will evaluate projects based on originality, diversity of storytelling, artistic vision and how environmental themes are integrated into the narrative. Preference will be given to projects that take an entertainment-first approach while encouraging audiences to consider environmental solutions.
The recipient of the inaugural award will be announced along with the other Spirit Awards nominees in December and will receive the honor during the Film Independent Spirit Awards ceremony on March 6, 2027, at the Hollywood Palladium.
Submissions for the 2027 Spirit Awards are scheduled to open Aug. 18.