A Filipino scientist received the United Nations’ Sasakawa Award for his initiatives in disaster risk reduction on May 26.
Glenn S. Banaguas, founder of the Environmental and Climate Change Research Institute (ECCRI), leads the Climate Smart Philippines program which tackles disaster risks reduction and prevention of damage and losses from climate change.
“I extend my thanks and gratitude to the organizers of the UN Sasakawa Award for recognizing Climate Smart Philippines’ efforts to empower people from all walks of life to develop evidence-based, humane, and gender-responsive solutions,” he said during the awarding ceremony in Bali, Indonesia.
Banaguas bested over 200 nominations worldwide.
Banaguas is a scientist, a diplomat, and an expert in the areas of environment, climate change and disaster risks, the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNNRD) said in its website.
“He has created a “Climate Smart” program to support vulnerable communities in the ASEAN region in building resilience and adapting to the climate change through sustainable practices,” it added.
Save the Children - Philippines also won the award in the Organization category.