Nomination details:
Associate Professor Alexander Tøsdal Tveit, Professor Lisa Y. Stein, and Research Scientist Fang Qian are working on the BIOSINK project which aims to utilise Arctic atmospheric methane oxidizing bacteria to create biofilters that convert low-concentration methane emissions into biomass. Methane is a significant greenhouse gas, contributing 20% to global warming, and its reduction is crucial for climate change mitigation. Efficiently capturing methane from the air using bacteria sourced from Arctic environments offers a potential solution for capturing methane emissions. Additionally, the project aims to convert methane into protein-rich biomass for use in food production. Under the leadership of experts from the University of Alberta, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, the BIOSINK project will significantly impact Arctic and global societies by providing a viable method to reduce atmospheric methane and combat climate change.
See the full list of shortlisted nominees and their ideas here
The Frederik Paulsen Arctic Academic Action Award provides high-level recognition for innovative ideas that transform knowledge into action to help address the impacts of climate change in the Arctic. The prize comes with a 100,000 euro unrestricted grant that is intended to help develop the ideas through outreach, engagement, and communication.
The fourth Award will be announced at the Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík on October 18, 2024. The Frederik Paulsen Arctic Academic Action Award is a collaboration between Arctic Circle and UArctic.