The Innovation in Sustainability Science Award recognizes the authors of a peer-reviewed paper published in the past five years exemplifying leading-edge work on solution pathways to sustainability challenges. Bennett and colleagues provide compelling examples drawn from around the globe of concrete ways to improve sustainability and resilience through environmental innovations, reconfigurations of social-ecological relationships, and effective engagement with local stakeholders. The authors represent a diverse mix of institutions distributed in North America, South America, Africa, Asia, and Europe. The publication calls attention not only to world-wide ‘seeds of hope’ for a brighter future, but also to continuing efforts to glean knowledge and experiences that will foster a healthier planet and a higher quality of life for its inhabitants. Their work highlights the types of changes that can be implemented to improve sustainability, resilience, and quality of life in rural and urban area.