Modern society is dependent on the use of an enormous amount of chemical compounds. Obviously they contribute to our welfare and comfort, but unfortunately are also the source of a number of frightening and, in part, unknown effects on humans and the environment. Addressing and solving these complex issues requires broad strategies in which science, politics and market mechanisms all play key roles.

The 2008 Göteborg Award for Sustainable Development is shared in three equal parts by:
THEO COLBORN, MARGOT WALLSTRÖM and JAN AHLBOM and ULF DUUS from Göteborg.

This is the ninth Göteborg Award and the prize sum is one million Swedish crowns. The Award was founded by the City of Göteborg and several interested companies in 1999. Its purpose is to “stimulate and encourage strategic work for national and international sustainable development”.

THE PRIZE IS AWARDED BY THE CITY OF GÖTEBORG AND THE COMPANIES:
The Second AP Fund, Carl Bennet AB, Elanders AB, Eldan Recycling, Folksam, Götaverken Miljö, Handelsbanken, Nordea, Peab, Schenker AB, SKF and Stena Metall AB.

-Our global chemical society is sitting on a ticking bomb and we have to disarm it! The2008 Göteborg Award goes to four uniquely distinguished persons who through their everyday work in research, politics and market mechanisms have laid the foundation for a long-term “detoxifcation” of the world,” says Stefan Edman biologist, author, and Chairman of the jury.

-Our comfortable lifestyle is based on a bunch of clever chemicals like dishwashing liquid, lubricants and preservatives. But the downside is the enormous sludge of known and unknown substances that poison ecosystems and infict humans with cancer and other illnesses.”

The award winners will receive their prize at a ceremony on the 12th of November in Göteborg.