Rajendra Pachauri & the IPCC
Nominated by: OneWorld editors
According to the BBC, Dr. Pachauri said he was "just a symbol" and credit was due to his organisation and its efforts. "It is really the scientific community that contributes to the work of the IPCC and the governments who support the work of the IPCC who are really the winners of this award," he said, referring to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
The IPCC's self-described role is "to assess on a comprehensive, objective, open, and transparent basis the scientific, technical, and socio-economic information relevant to understanding the scientific basis of risk of human-induced climate change, its potential impacts, and options for adaptation and mitigation." Hundreds of scientists contribute to the IPCC's work as they review the latest findings of thousands of other scientists and publish reports that guide chief policy makers grappling with global warming on a daily basis.
One can only hope that 2008's defining work will be political, as governments begin to implement the policies necessary to put the planet back on a path of healthy development. OneWorld has developed a wealth of resources on climate change. For the latest news, analysis, and features, as well as background on the issue and ways to get involved, check out the Perspectives Magazine edition: "Climate Change: It's Changing Everything." To ask your questions and join up with others who care about climate change, try OneClimate.net, the "Climate Facebook.  VOTE NOW!
THE OTHER FINALISTS... Vicky Tauli-Corpuz & the world's indigenous rights campaigners
Betty Makoni
Rajendra Pachauri & the scientific community and governments contributing to the IPCC
Justine Masika Bihamba & Eve Ensler
Burma's Monks
Molly Melching & the women of Senegal and West Africa
Vandana Shiva
$100 Laptop Designers
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