KAUST congratulates Ibn Sina Distinguished Professor Carlos Duarte, whose groundbreaking research into “blue carbon” — the science of combating climate change through the conservation and restoration of seagrass, mangroves and shabkha ecosystems — has earned him the prestigious Japan Prize.
The Japan Prize Foundation’s annual award recognizes exceptional scientists globally for achievements in science and technology that advance peace and prosperity for humankind. Duarte will travel to Tokyo in April, where Emperor Naruhito will present him with the prize for his contributions to understanding marine ecosystems in a changing planet. Duarte’s work advocates preserving and enhancing ecosystems that store significant amounts of CO2.
Duarte coined the term “blue carbon” when introducing the concept in a co-authored report for the United Nations in 2009. He joined KAUST in 2015 and quickly became a leading Red Sea marine researcher and a committed resource for Vision 2030 initiatives, including serving as an environmental advisor to Red Sea Global and Saudi government centers and initiatives addressing marine conservation, the blue economy and climate change.
KAUST President Sir Edward Byrne AC said that Duarte represents the best in KAUST not only because of his excellent science, but because he supports Saudi Arabia in establishing itself as a global scientific leader. “This prize demonstrates how nations rely on the Kingdom for science that guides policies for a secure and sustainable future.”