Blue Water Awards honors filmmakers, activists and pioneers for their commitment to environmental justice and global equity. Since its inception in 2020, the Blue Water Institute has established itself as a leading voice for the oceans the world, sending powerful messages of the urgency of climate change and environmental injustice.
Blue Water Film Festival takes place in San Diego home Scripps Institution of Oceanography. The purpose of the Blue Water Institute is to innovate ocean-based solutions and to foster the next generation of environmental filmmakers. Each June, the festival celebrates UN – World Water Day with a slate of cutting-edge environmental documentary feature films, shorts, industry panels and workshops. The 2026 BWFF will be held in San Diego March 19-22.
Founded in 2020, Blue Water Film Festival celebrates UN – World Water Day, March 22nd. The theme of the BWFF is about the preservation of our Blue Planet; the festival’s purpose is to encourage attendees to think broadly about how climate change affects planet Earth and to think deeply about the universal concerns and actions needed to bring us into balance. About 50% of all film selections are international productions, helping to fulfill the festival mission of promoting cross -cultural understanding through film.
Blue Water Institute is a non-profit organization committed to the preservation of the planet and the need to nurture the next generation of environmental filmmakers. The Institute is driven by its innovative environmental programs that explore, discover, and give encouragement to support the next generation of environmental filmmakers from all over the world.
Grand Jury – Best Feature Documentary Film – This award is presented for Best Feature in environmental storytelling.
Grand Jury – Best Narrative Short Film – This award is presented for Best Narrative Short in environmental storytelling.
Grand Jury – Best Short Film – This award is the Grand Jury winner for Best Short in environmental storytelling.
Eco Impact Award – This award is presented to a filmmaker showcasing environmental stewardship.
Best Cinematography – This award is presented for excellence in cinematography..
Grand Jury – Best Animation Film – Presented by Animation Magazine for Best Animated Film.
Grand Jury Best Animated Short – Presented by Animation Magazine for Best Short Animated Film.
Best Science Film – Acknowledges a filmmaker working in the field of climate change.
Producer’s Vision Award – This award is presented to producers for excellence in environmental storytelling.
Director’s Vision Award – This award is presented to the Directors for Excellence in Environmental storytelling.
Special Jury Award – Best Feature Documentary – This award is presented for Excellence in Documentary storytelling.