Entries should excel in presenting original scholarship that demonstrates an insightful appreciation for ecosystems. In other words, any contestant's study of ecosystems qualifies for the academic award "A" or "Best-In-Class" with a teacher or an academic advisor at her/his school.

Generally, the content of each YESSS contestant's entry helps address an emergent eco-crisis. Each entry contributes value to the body of knowledge that can help guide human activity systems along more sustainable pathways.

Each contest entry:

•represents a contestant's understanding of ecosystems

•demonstrates critical, ethical and systems thinking

•presents creative insight relevant to eco-crises management

•describes implementation efforts to secure eco-sensible improvement

•includes a learning resource for younger students and their teachers