He was awarded for establishing new field of science ‘Earth System Analysis’ and introducing most influential concepts including the notion of tipping elements in the climate system in Tokyo. He is Director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK).
It is the world’s most prestigious award for pioneers in environmental science and often considered as Nobel Prize for environmental research.
It was instituted by Asahi Glass Foundation. It honours outstanding thinkers who help to meet challenges of planetary dimensions. It carries prize of 50 million yen (about $450,000) and is handed over in presence of Japan’s Imperial Prince and Princess.
