Stephen R. Carpenter, professor of zoology and limnology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA, has been awarded the 2011 Stockholm Water Prize. The prestigious prize will be presented to the scientist by H.M. King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden at a royal award ceremony during the World Water Week in Stockholm on August 25, 2011. Carpenter is editor-in-chief of Springer's journal Ecosystems.
Carpenter is recognized as one of the world's most influential environmental scientists in the field of ecology. His groundbreaking research has shown how lake ecosystems are affected by the surrounding landscape and by human activities. This research has formed the basis for concrete solutions on how to manage lakes. Known among his fellow scientists for his creativity and enthusiasm, Carpenter's work combines different scientific disciplines and approaches. He looks for collaboration outside of academia, managing to link research to both policy and practice.
The Stockholm Water Prize Nominating Committee stated, "Professor Carpenter has shown outstanding leadership in setting the ecological research agenda, integrating it into a socio-ecological context, and in providing guidance for the management of aquatic resources."
The Stockholm Water Prize is a global award presented annually by the Stockholm International Water Institute. The Stockholm Water Prize Laureate receives USD 150,000 and a crystal sculpture specially designed by Orrefors.