A new poetry award has been announced to bridge the gap between science and creativity, particularly focused on the climate crisis. The award, introduced by The Conversation, encourages researchers in the UK and Ireland to express their insights on climate change through poetry, making complex ideas more accessible to wider audiences.
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Academics are invited to submit poems inspired by their climate change research, with the goal of engaging readers emotionally and provoking thoughtful dialogue about the future. This competition, the first of its kind for The Conversation, seeks to address how stories about climate change can motivate people to envision a better future, rather than simply instilling fear.
Submissions are welcomed from those enrolled in research positions at universities in the UK and Ireland, including PhD candidates, postdoctoral scholars, and lecturers. Poems must range from a minimum of three lines to a maximum of 40 lines, and no previous poetry experience is necessary.
To launch the competition, a free introductory climate poetry workshop led by Professor Sam Illingworth from Edinburgh Napier University is available on YouTube. The deadline for entries is September 1, 2026, at 11:59 PM BST.
A panel of judges, including Senior Environment Editor Anna Turns, Senior Arts and Culture Editor Anna Walker, and Professor Sam Illingworth, will review the submissions. The winning entry will be chosen from a shortlist by Professor Helen Mort, an award-winning poet from Manchester Metropolitan University. Judges will emphasize creativity, perspective, and clarity in communicating research.
Entrants must provide a climate-themed poem and a supporting statement up to 250 words detailing the research that inspired their work. The first prize winner will receive a five-day retreat at The Little Goat Barn Writing Retreat in North Wales, while shortlisted poems will be published in an ebook anthology by The Conversation UK later in the year.
The retreat offers a tranquil setting for writing, including access to a 5,000-volume library and opportunities for outdoor activities, facilitating an inspiring environment for the winning poet.
Professor Sam Illingworth highlighted that this competition is an innovative way for scientists to communicate their work outside traditional academic channels, aiming to foster empathy through poetic expression. Professor Helen Mort, who has experience blending poetry with climate science, reinforces the importance of understanding the emotional nuances of the climate crisis through creative writing.