We congratulate the prize laureates in GCUA 2030 award 2023!

From left: Olwethu Poswayo, NMU, Shaik Abdullah, HKU, and Michael Gräf, BOKU. 

First prize laureate: Olwethu Poswayo, Nelson Mandela University

Title: 'Optimization of utilization of biomass for production of bio-oil and its hydro-processing to produce quality biofuel'

Motivation: “This high-quality research focuses on the important topic of combining algae and coal into coalgae composites which can be a part of meeting the energy demand, protect the environment and can be further optimised to reduce the greenhouse gases. Ms Poswayo succeeds to effectively communicate the results in a clear way and explains very well how her research contributes to global sustainable development with a focus on SDG 7 –“Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all” and SDG 13 – Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts”.

Olwethu Poswayo will give a seminar about her research during 2024 and receives a prize of 3500 Euro.

Watch Olwethu Poswayo's video here

Second prize laureate: Shaid Abdullah Nawabjan, Hong Kong University

Title: Evaluation of the Detoxification Property of Hong Kong Pearl Oyster (Pinctada imbricata) Powder

Motivation: “This high-quality research focuses on the important topic of sustainable use of pearl powder as a tool for decrease the amount of heavy metals in the human body. Dr. Abdullah communicates the results in a clear way and explains very well how his research contributes to several of the SDGs, in particular SDG 3 –  Good health and well-being.”

Shaik Abdullah receives a prize of 1000 Euro.

Watch Shaik Abdullah's video here

Third prize laureate: Michael Gräf, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna

Title: “Monitoring the Plant Physiological Features of Urban Green Infrastructures"

Motivation: “This high-quality research focuses on the importance of green infrastructure in urban areas to reduce heat island effects and provide favourable ecosystem services. Dr. Gräf communicates the results in a clear way and explains very well how his research contributes to several of the SDGs, in particular SDG 11 – Sustainable cities and communities”.

Michael Gräf receives a prize of 500 Euro.

Watch Michael Gräf's video here