At the ceremony, Gerald Haug, President of the Virchow Foundation and the German Academy of Sciences Leopoldina, praised the two researchers: “Their research and advocacy have shown that human health is inextricably linked to the health of our planet. And their tireless efforts to advance equity in health systems and champion the sustainable stewardship of earth resources have reshaped our understanding of wellbeing in the 21st century. In honouring these exceptional individuals, we also celebrate the core values of the Virchow Foundation: humanity, health equity and the relentless per pursuit of knowledge. As we recognize their contributions today may their work inspire all of us to thrive for a healthier, more just and sustainable world.”
“I'm deeply honoured to receive the Virchow Prize 2024, together with Lucy Gilson, as it underlines that the health of our planet and human health are closely linked,” states laureate Johan Rockström. “Human prosperity and social inclusion depend on respecting planetary boundaries, yet our actions are endangering both our climate and health. We must treat our planet as a shared public good and act urgently to stay within planetary boundaries. Health is probably our best means in reaching out to decision-makers and citizens around the world, because it affects all of us.”
The Virchow Prize recognizes outstanding lifetime achievements in the field of global health that align and uphold the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda.
Virchow Prize Website:
Video of the Award Ceremony:
Contact:
PIK press office
Phone: +49 331 288 25 07
E-Mail: press@pik-potsdam.de
www.pik-potsdam.de
