Since 1990, the BundesUmweltWettbewerb (a nationwide environmental competition) has provided an opportunity for committed and talented students throughout Germany to test their abilities in the field of environmental studies. The BUW offers a range of attractive prizes, with the prospect of study trips or internships at German research institutions for the most successful competitors.

The competition is conducted annually by the IPN on behalf of the Federal Ministry for Education and Research (BMBF). The BUW team plans and organizes the competition, takes care of participants and judges, and co-ordinates all subsidiary activities.

The aim of the BUW is to promote knowledge about the environment and to further budding creativity and initiative in the tackling of environmental issues. It is an opportunity for professionals to identify and encourage young people with particular talent in the field. Competitors are required to display expert knowledge coupled with creativity and a capacity for inter-disciplinary reflection. They must be able to integrate theory and practice, to communicate skilfully with people whose opinions differ from their own, and to be assertive.

The competition is designed for young people between the ages of 13 and 21. Students may compete as individuals or in small groups of up to six.

The competitors' task is to identify and analyse an environmental problem in their own sphere, then to develop practical solutions. The topics can be chosen from any environmentally relevant area. This means that projects will not necessarily centre on concerns classically regarded as ecological, but may focus on economic, cultural, technological or social issues. In keeping with the motto of the competition From Knowledge to sustainable Action the projects should show evidence that practical steps have been taken towards implementation of the proposed solutions.

The BUW requirements of self-assertion, ability to communicate, willingness to co-operate and capacity for conflict resolution in addition to intellectual achievement bring a new (social) dimension to the concept of giftedness.

Participants whose written work has been short-listed for the main prizes receive an invitation to present their project and discuss their work with the panel of judges. Although the participants tend to be nervous beforehand, the supportive atmosphere and the contact with fellow competitors usually combine to make an enjoyable occasion. Independent experts from the field of environmental science and education decide how the prizes are to be distributed.

The annual BUW newsletter (Vom Wissen zum nachhaltigen Handeln) documents the latest competition results and news. The best projects are presented in the touring BUW exhibition.