American Environmental Scientist Named the 2011 Stockholm Water Prize Laureate

STOCKHOLM, Sweden, March 22, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Stephen R. Carpenter, Professor of Zoology and Limnology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA, will receive the 2011 Stockholm Water Prize. This announcement was made today in connection with the UN World Water Day. Professor Carpenter's groundbreaking research has shown how lake ecosystems are affected by the surrounding landscape and by human activities. His findings have formed the basis for concrete solutions on how to manage lakes.

For full press release, translations, background facts, photos and video material, visit: http://www.siwi.org/SWP2011

Born in 1952, Professor Carpenter is recognised as one of the world's most influential environmental scientists in the field of ecology. By combining theoretical models and large-scale lake experiments he has reframed our understanding of freshwater environments and how lake ecosystems are impacted by humans and the surrounding landscape.

The Stockholm Water Prize Nominating Committee emphasises the importance of Professor Carpenter's contributions in helping us understand how we affect lakes through nutrient loading, fishing, and introduction of exotic species.

"Professor Carpenter has shown outstanding leadership in setting the ecological research agenda, integrating it into a socio-ecological context, and in providing guidance for the management of aquatic resources," noted the Committee.

Professor Carpenter is best known for his research on trophic cascades in lakes - a concept which describes how impacts on any species in an ecosystem will cascade down, or up, the food chain. Known amongst his peers in the scientific community for his creativity and enthusiasm, Professor Carpenter's work combines different scientific disciplines and approaches. By seeking collaboration outside of academia, he has managed to link research to both policy and practice.

On receiving the news, Professor Carpenter said:"I am thrilled. Many great people have received the prize over the years, and there are many others whose work is worth rewarding. It is a great honour to be selected. The prize will increase my resolve and sense of obligation to work on emerging issues of freshwater, such as climate change and the connections of food and water security."

H.M. King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden will present the prize to Professor Carpenter at a royal award ceremony during the World Water Week in Stockholm on August 25. The Stockholm Water Prize is a global award presented annually by the Stockholm International Water Institute. The Stockholm Water Prize Laureate receives USD 150,000 and a crystal sculpture specially designed by Orrefors.

PRESS INFORMATION

For background facts, translations, photos and video, see: http://www.siwi.org/SWP2011