I am very happy to report this morning that Dr. James Hansen, one of our great heroes here at 350.org, has been named the 2010 recipient of the Sophie Prize. Dr. Hansen is receiving the prize for his outstanding science related to climate change as well as his active role as a "concerned grandfather," taking action to increase public awareness of the climate crisis.
Dr. Hansen is NASA's top climate scientist and was one of the first people to introduce the world to the climate crisis, most notably with his 1988 testimony to the US Congress. In January of 2008 he released a report along with a number of climate scientists called, "Target CO2: Where Humanity Should Aim," which first identified 350 ppm as the safe upper limit of CO2 in the atmosphere and became one of the primary inspirations for the 350 campaign.
Most recently, Dr. Hansen has published a book, Storms of My Grandchildren — The truth about the coming climate catastrophe and our last chance to save humanity.
It is always uplifting when the right people are recognized for their excellence of work and tireless leadership. So we are heartened to learn that Dr. Hansen is receiving this award and thank him for his ongoing service to science and the world.