Susan Solomon Wins 2026 Tang Prize for Climate Science Leadership
Event summary
- Atmospheric chemist Susan Solomon awarded the 2026 Tang Prize in Sustainable Development for her work on ozone depletion and climate change.
- Prize includes NT$50 million (US$1.6 million) cash award, with NT$10 million allocated for research or educational outreach.
- Solomon's contributions include proving CFCs caused the ozone hole and co-leading the IPCC's Fourth Assessment Report.
- Award marks 40 years since Solomon's first Antarctic expeditions in 1986.
- Solomon currently serves as professor at MIT after 30 years at NOAA.
The big picture
The Tang Prize recognition underscores the growing intersection of scientific research and global policy in addressing climate change. Solomon's career, spanning foundational discoveries to high-level policy influence, exemplifies how academic leadership can drive sustainable development. The award highlights the critical role of long-term climate science in shaping international environmental agreements, particularly in the context of irreversible CO₂ impacts.
What we're watching
- Policy Influence
- How Solomon's work will continue shaping global climate negotiations and environmental governance.
- Research Impact
- The pace at which the NT$10 million grant will advance climate science and educational outreach.
- Legacy Continuation
- Whether MIT and NOAA can sustain the momentum of Solomon's contributions in atmospheric sciences.