Urvi Foundation becomes Earthna Prize finalist in Qatar

Trivandrum-based Urvi Foundation’s Stone Free Movement has gained international recognition after being named one of the 12 finalists for the prestigious Earthna Prize, awarded by the Earthna Centre for a Sustainable Future under the Qatar Foundation. The initiative stood out among 410 projects from 104 countries, revealing its global impact on sustainable development.

The Earthna Prize honors projects that integrate traditional knowledge with sustainability, focusing on categories such as water resource management, food security, sustainable urbanism and land stewardship. Being selected as a finalist places the Stone Free Movement among the world’s leading sustainability initiatives.

Launched in 2017, the Stone Free Movement tackles the environmental consequences of excessive quarrying and unscientific construction in Kerala. The project not only aims to preserve the state’s biodiversity and landscape but also promotes sustainable construction alternatives and community-based environmental conservation.

In addition to raising public awareness, the movement actively trains students in sustainable development models. As part of its research efforts, the URVIKOSA Research Centre in Trivandrum was established to introduce architects and engineers to innovative sustainable technologies.

Architect Hasan Naseef, Founder and Chairman of Urvi Foundation, expressed pride in the achievement, calling it one of the most significant international honors for Kerala’s sustainable development efforts.

The Earthna Prize finalists represent some of the most innovative projects addressing global sustainability challenges. The recognition of the Stone Free Movement further solidifies Urvi Foundation’s role in promoting environmentally responsible development.