Hans-Josef Fell, the World Meteorological Organization and the Pratham Education Foundation have been named as the three winners of the 2018 LUI Che Woo Prize.
Celebrating its fourth year since launching in 2015, the LUI Che Woo Prize aims to recognize and honor individuals or organizations around the world for outstanding contributions while encouraging the continuation of that work in three objectives: sustainable development of the world, betterment of the welfare of mankind and promotion of positive life attitude and enhancement of positive energy.
Each laureate receives a cash award of HK$20 million, a certificate and a trophy.
At a ceremony held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre on Wednesday night, Hans-Josef Fell was awarded the 2018 Sustainability Prize for the Development of Renewable Energy, having worked as an environmental pioneer since the 1970s. Fell established the world’s first energy community to produce solar power in 1994, transforming the market for renewable energy, and successfully fought for the adoption of the Renewable Energy Act in the German Parliament. This law has since been replicated over 100 times around the globe, contributing to changes in renewable energy practices worldwide.
The 2018 Welfare Betterment Prize for Reduction of the Impact of Natural Disasters was awarded to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), which is responsible for setting worldwide standards and providing the framework for international cooperation by supporting its 191 member states and territories to implement adopted policies, leading to better monitoring, forecasting and communication of meteorological hazards on a global scale.
The 2018 Positive Energy Prize for Elimination of Illiteracy was awarded to the Pratham Education Foundation, which directly helps one million children attain basic literacy and numeracy annually, and is now one of the largest NGOs in India focusing on high-quality, low-cost interventions which address gaps in the education system.
“No distance is too far for like-minded people,” said Dr Lui Che Woo at the ceremony. “We have travelled thousands of miles to come together because we have a similar vision and philosophy. The three laureates this year share the same vision with the LUI Che Woo Prize. They not only believe in making a better world, but also overcome difficulties with courage, wisdom, and selflessness.
“They are role models in their fields and have greatly contributed to the world; inspiring more people to participate and jointly create our future. It is our honor to have the three laureates attending in person tonight to accept the Prize.”