Chinese scientist Lu Qi wins 2024 Champions of the Earth award

(ECNS) -- Chinese scientist Lu Qi was awarded the title of 2024 Champions of the Earth of Science and Innovation by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) on Tuesday for his contributions to addressing desertification, land degradation and drought.

Lu is the chief scientist of the Chinese Academy of Forestry and founding president of the Institute of Great Green Wall. He is the first Chinese who has been honored in this category.

According to the UNEP, Lu has played a key role in implementing the world’s largest afforestation project, establishing expert research networks and partnerships, and boosting multilateral cooperation to stem desertification, land degradation and drought.

The annual Champions of the Earth award, the UN’s highest environmental honor, recognizes trailblazers at the forefront of efforts to protect people and planet. Since 2005, the award has recognized 122 laureates for outstanding and inspirational environmental leadership.

It includes four categories, which are the Policy Leadership category, the Inspiration and Action category, the Science and Innovation category, and the Lifetime Achievement category.