Laureates

Angelique Kidjo, Benin
Champions of the Earth Laureate, 2011 - Inspiration and Action

“Rising food demand, depleting natural resources and the gathering pace of climate change are ticking time bombs which are failing the hungry and the planet.”

2009 Laureates (co-winner)

Project Leadership

Mr. Erik Solheim
Minister of the Environment and International Development, Norway

With two cabinet posts under his stewardship, Norway’s Minister of Environment and Minister of Development, Erik Solheim places the environment at the forefront of European politics. As a strong advocate of the integral relationship between environment and development, he has been a key supporter of environmental actions at national and global levels throughout his political career.

Mr. Solheim spearheaded the early implementation of REDD – Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation – with a grant of US$500 million annually. It was also under his leadership that Norway was one of the pioneer members of UNEP’s Climate Neutral Network, catalyzing his country’s action towards a low carbon society.

Further Resources