Professor Ragnar Elmgren is one of the most outstanding researchers in the field of marine eutrophication. His pioneering work over the past 50 years has focused on understanding the complex interactions between human activities and marine ecosystems. Through his tireless efforts to educate the public and train future generations of scientists he has shared his knowledge both nationally and internationally. Professor Elmgren is awarded the prize of SEK 4 million on September 17 at Hasselbacken in Stockholm, Sweden.
The Baltic Sea continues to face significant challenges with eutrophication, a condition leading to harmful algal blooms and oxygen depletion. This summer, like recent years, has persistent algal blooms that lasted longer than usual. Professor Ragnar Elmgren is renowned for his pioneering work in marine ecology, particularly in the Baltic Sea region. His research has focused on understanding the complex interactions between human activities and marine ecosystems. For his continuous work and contributions over the past 50 years, Professor Elmgren is awarded with the Björn Carlsons Östersjöpris 2024.
Overall, professor Elmgren has an impressive track record with 81 publications cited more than 9000 times. Several of his papers are also well-cited in European, the US, and international policy documents. Additionally, he has been a leading expert in advocating sustainable management practices in coastal areas. Elmgren became a full Professor of Brackish Water Ecology at Stockholm University in 1990 and retired from his professorship in 2011. Thereafter, he actively coordinated the Baltic Ecosystem Adaptive Management (BEAM) program and participated in several research projects.
September 17, Professor Elmgren will be awarded the Björn Carlsons Östersjöpris 2024 at Hasselbacken in Stockholm. As recipient of the award, he will receive SEK 4 million from Björn Carlsons Östersjöstiftelse in order to inspire further work for a healthier sea.
– Since I know the many outstanding scientists working on the Baltic Sea and its problems, I am surprised and happy to be the recipient of this important award for 2024. I see the prize as a recognition of my over 50 years of research on a variety of Baltic Sea topics. I hope to use these funds in collaboration with former colleagues, many of whom were once my doctoral students. I have not had the time to make detailed plans, but eutrophication management, cyanobacterial blooms and benthic ecology are likely topics, says Professor Ragnar Elmgren.
