King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) proudly announces that Professor Carlos M. Duarte, Ibn Sina Distinguished Professor of Marine Science, has been awarded the internationally acclaimed Japan Prize for his groundbreaking contributions to marine ecology and his pioneering research on the crucial role of blue carbon ecosystems as a nature-based climate solution. This marks the second time a KAUST scientist has received the Japan Prize, making it the only university in the MENA region to be honored with this global accolade twice.

The Japan Prize, often referred to as the "Japanese Nobel Prize," is one of the world’s most prestigious awards in science and technology. It honors exceptional achievements that contribute to global peace and prosperity. Professor Duarte's award acknowledges his decades of research on blue carbon ecosystems, including seagrasses, mangroves, and salt marshes. These ecosystems, though covering only 0.2% of the ocean floor, store approximately 50% of all carbon buried annually in marine sediments. His findings have played a critical role in shaping international strategies for leveraging these ecosystems to combat climate change and restore biodiversity.

Professor Duarte will receive the award in a formal ceremony in Tokyo on April 16th, presided over by His Majesty Emperor Naruhito.

"Receiving the Japan Prize is a deeply humbling moment," said Professor Carlos Duarte. "This honor 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".

Professor Sir Edward Byrne, President of KAUST, stated, "Professor Duarte's recognition is a testament to KAUST's commitment to cutting-edge research and to Saudi Arabia's growing impact in sustainability and environmental science globally. His work exemplifies KAUST's role 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."

Beyond his research, Professor Duarte has been instrumental in advising Saudi Arabia on its national marine conservation efforts and national sustainability strategies, as well as ocean stewardship. He has also played a pivotal role in shaping global ocean policy, serving as the Executive Director of the G20 Backed Coral Research & Development Accelerator Platform (CORDAP), which aims to fast-track innovation in coral reef restoration around the world. His expertise continues to influence climate negotiations and marine conservation frameworks worldwide.

Duarte is the second person from KAUST to win the prize. In 2013, Jean M. J. Fréchet, a former Vice President of Research, won for outstanding achievement in the development of chemically amplified resist polymer materials for innovative semiconductor manufacturing processes.

Established in 2009, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is a graduate research university devoted to finding solutions for pressing scientific and technological challenges in food and health, water, energy, environment, and the digital domain. KAUST is a catalyst for innovation, economic development, and social prosperity, fostering collaborations with other academic institutions, industries, and Saudi agencies. More than 120 different nationalities live, work, and study on the KAUST campus.

The Coral Research & Development Accelerator Platform (CORDAP) is a G20 initiative dedicated to accelerating research and development to safeguard coral reefs globally. KAUST is a key funder and strategic partner of CORDAP, demonstrating its commitment to coral reef conservation by enabling critical research and the development of innovative solutions for protecting these vital ecosystems.