THUWAL, Saudi Arabia, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is thrilled to announce that Professor Carlos M. Duarte, who holds the title of Ibn Sina Distinguished Professor of Marine Science, has been honored with the prestigious Japan Prize. This award recognizes his groundbreaking contributions to marine ecology, particularly his pioneering research focused on the vital role that blue carbon ecosystems play as nature-based solutions for climate change.

The Japan Prize, often referred to as the "Japanese Nobel Prize," is one of the most distinguished honors in the fields of science and technology, celebrating exceptional achievements that contribute significantly to global peace and prosperity. Professor Duarte's receipt of this award emphasizes not only his individual accomplishments but also positions KAUST as the only university in the MENA region to be recognized with such a global accolade.

Professor Duarte's extensive research has primarily focused on blue carbon ecosystems, which include seagrasses, mangroves, and salt marshes. Remarkably, these ecosystems occupy just 0.2% of the ocean floor yet are responsible for sequestering approximately 50% of all carbon that is buried annually in marine sediments. His pioneering work has been instrumental in shaping international strategies aimed at leveraging these ecosystems to combat climate change while simultaneously restoring biodiversity.

The formal award ceremony will take place on April 16th in Tokyo, where Duarte will be presented with the prize by His Majesty Emperor Naruhito. Professor Duarte expressed his feelings about the award, stating, "Receiving the Japan Prize is a deeply humbling moment. This honour recognizes the extraordinary potential of our oceans in restoring planetary health. I hope this spotlight on blue carbon inspires a new wave of ambition, particularly among younger generations of scientists and leaders, to embrace nature-based solutions and work collaboratively to address the climate crisis." This statement underscores the importance of encouraging future generations to focus on sustainable practices and research.

President of KAUST, Professor Sir Edward Byrne, highlighted that Professor Duartes recognition is a testament to the university's commitment to cutting-edge research and reflects Saudi Arabia's increasing impact in the realms of sustainability and environmental science on a global scale. He remarked, "His work exemplifies KAUST's engagement in advancing Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative, driving innovation in marine conservation, climate innovation, and scientific leadership, both regionally and internationally."

In addition to his research accomplishments, Professor Duarte has been pivotal in advising the Saudi government on national marine conservation initiatives and sustainability strategies. His influence extends to shaping global ocean policy, particularly as the Executive Director of the G20-backed Coral Research & Development Accelerator Platform (CORDAP). This initiative is designed to expedite innovation in coral reef restoration, a critical area of marine conservation, which now faces unprecedented challenges due to climate change.

Notably, Professor Duarte is the second individual from KAUST to receive the Japan Prize. The first was Jean M. J. Frchet, a former Vice President of Research at the university, who won the award in 2013 for his significant advancements in developing chemically amplified resist polymer materials used in innovative semiconductor manufacturing processes.

About KAUST
Established in 2009, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is a graduate research university dedicated to addressing some of the most pressing scientific and technological challenges facing the globe and Saudi Arabia, particularly in areas such as food, health, water, energy, environment, and digital technology. KAUST prides itself on being a curiosity-driven, interdisciplinary institution that fosters innovation.

The university brings together brilliant minds from over 120 different nationalities, creating a vibrant community dedicated to research and discovery. KAUST also serves as a catalyst for economic development and social prosperity, with its research outcomes leading to novel patents, products, entrepreneurial startups, and collaborations with various academic institutions, industries, and Saudi agencies.

About CORDAP
The Coral Research & Development Accelerator Platform (CORDAP) is a G20 initiative focused on accelerating research and development to protect coral reefs worldwide. CORDAP acts as a global hub, promoting collaboration among scientists, policymakers, and the private sector to devise and implement innovative solutions for coral reef conservation, restoration, and adaptation in the face of climate change. KAUST plays a vital role as a key funder and strategic partner of CORDAP, reaffirming its commitment to coral reef preservation.

KAUST's financial backing enables CORDAP to undertake critical research and craft innovative strategies essential for safeguarding these crucial marine ecosystems.

SOURCE KAUST