🌟 Big news from Nairobi! Chinese scientist Lu Qi has just been honored with the 2024 UNEP Champions of the Earth Award! 🎉
Lu Qi, who's been a game-changer in the fight against environmental degradation, grabbed the spotlight in the Science and Innovation category. For over 30 years, he's been at the forefront of reversing desertification and promoting sustainable practices in the Chinese mainland. 🌱
As the chief scientist at the Chinese Academy of Forestry, Lu has been instrumental in launching the world's largest afforestation project. We're talking about turning deserts back into thriving ecosystems! 🌳
He didn't stop there. Lu has been a driving force in building global partnerships to combat land degradation and drought. His work is not just about China; it's about inspiring ecological progress worldwide. 🌍
In his statement, Lu expressed his excitement: 'This award is the highest recognition and greatest encouragement for our efforts in forestry and grassland. It's a big win for all the scientists and technologists dedicated to sand control.'
Lu believes that scientific and technological innovations are key to making our planet greener. He's all about sharing effective solutions through initiatives like China's Belt and Road Initiative and the Global Development Initiative. 🤝
'Together,' he says, 'we can contribute to building two \"Great Green Walls\" for the planet and make China's contribution to a greener Earth.' 💚
The UNEP's Champions of the Earth Award isn't just any award—it's the highest environmental honor given by the United Nations Environment Program since 2005. This year, six trailblazers are being celebrated for their bold actions and sustainable solutions. 🏆
Other winners include Sonia Guajajara from Brazil, Amy Bowers Cordalis from the U.S., Gabriel Paun from Romania, Madhav Gadgil from India, and SEKEM from Egypt. Talk about a global effort! 🌐
UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen reminded us that 'almost 40% of the world's land is already degraded, desertification is on the rise, and devastating droughts are becoming more frequent.' But with leaders like Lu Qi, there's hope. 'We can restore our ecosystems!' she said. 🙌
It's inspiring to see scientists and activists from around the world coming together to protect our planet. Who knows? Maybe one of us could be the next Champion of the Earth! 🌎✨
Reference(s):
Chinese scientist wins 2024 UNEP's Champions of the Earth Award
cgtn.com
