Described as "the father of green chemistry", Green Chemistry  board member Dr. Paul Anastas has received the prestigious $250,000 award for his research into pollution reduction through molecular redesign of products, as well as his work in the development and popularisation of green chemistry from the early 1990s onwards.  

Dr Anastas has publicly championed the green chemistry movement and actively sought funding for future research.   He motivated various governmental and public institutions in the USA, leading to the establishment of the Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Award and has also helped forge several collaborative research and development programs.   Furthermore, Dr. Anastas helped found the Green Chemistry Institute whose work and presence is felt worldwide.

"The green chemistry movement is green in more ways than one," Dr. Anastas said.   "It is green in the context of being environmentally friendly, but it also is green in its relative youth.   We have made tremendous strides over the past decade and a half in reversing the psychology of industry and government on the matter of pollution prevention, and yet we have barely scratched the surface of what the promise of green chemistry holds for the world.   I am pleased to accept the Heinz Award for the Environment on behalf of my scientific, corporate and public policy colleagues who have helped in courageously championing this cause."

The Heinz Award of $250,000 is presented annually in five categories, "in recognition of individuals whose dedication, skill and generosity of spirit represent the best of the human qualities".  Dr. Anastas will be presented with his award at a private ceremony in Pittsburgh, USA, on 24th October 2006.