A global group of experts from the environment, business, political and philanthropic worlds has established the 2023 Terra Carta Seal Expert Review Panel under the Sustainable Markets Initiative.

It also announced seven panellists, who would evaluate and select the 2023 Terra Carta Seal Award winners. Launched in 2021 at COP26 by King Charles III when he was Prince of Wales, the Terra Carta Seal recognises global companies that are actively leading the charge to create a climate and nature-positive future.

In May, the Sustainable Markets Initiative announced its partnership with Verdantix, an independent research firm that acts as a thought-leader for world-enhancing innovation.

The panel would work with Verdantix to evaluate nominations and assess their alignment with the 10 Terra Carta articles. This year’s judges include founder/president of The Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA), Toyin Saraki; Lead for Sustainability Strategy and Partnerships, Mahindra Group, Ankit Lodi; Chief Sustainability Officer at Mastercard, Ellen Jackowski; CEO/Chairman, African Investor (Ai) Group, Dr. Hubert Danso; former National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), Perry Bellegarde; Board Member, Multiethnic Leaders NZ and Strategic Council Member, Climate Catalyst, Pok Wei-Heng and Mayor of Montreal, Canada, Valérie Plante.

Saraki has severally served as a judge on the yearly MIT Solve competition of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Cannes Lions Film Festival.

She also recently adjudicated as a Grand Global Jury Member of the Fight for Access Accelerator Nigeria, led by Reckitt and Yunus Social Business (YSB).

Speaking on her membership of the jury, the Kwara State ex-First Lady submitted: “I am deeply honoured and excited to join the esteemed 2023 Terra Carta Seal Expert Review Panel. This prestigious initiative, launched by His Majesty, King Charles III at COP26, holds the promise of a brighter and more sustainable future for our planet. It is heartening to see global leaders from diverse backgrounds come together to recognise and reward companies that are committed to positive change for both our environment and society.

“The Terra Carta Seal Award represents a powerful commitment to addressing climate change and nurturing our natural world.”

Applications close on September 29.