NWO honours IHE Delft Professor Joyeeta Gupta with Spinoza Prize for Outstanding Scientific Contributions
The Dutch Research Council (NWO) has awarded the Spinoza Prize, the highest distinction in Dutch science, to Joyeeta Gupta, Professor of Law and Policy in Water Resources and Environment at IHE Delft and co-chair of the Earth Commission. Gupta receives the prize, sometimes called the "Dutch Nobel Prize," for her outstanding, pioneering, and inspiring scientific work focused on a just and sustainable world. She will receive 1.5 million euro for further scientific research. The official presentation is scheduled for 4 October 2023.
The NWO selection committee was deeply impressed by the scientific impact of Gupta's knowledge and described her research as "incredibly broad and interdisciplinary." Gupta's research explores how we can address climate change issues through good governance. At the core of her work lies the endeavour to unravel the connections between the climate crisis, water problems, potential solutions, and justice. To achieve this, Gupta's research integrates various scientific disciplines, ranging from international law and economics to political science, development studies, and environmental studies.
"I am extremely honoured," says Gupta. "The past recipients of this award represent the epitome of Dutch academia, so I am proud to be considered alongside them." Gupta intends to utilise the prize money to advance research related to justice and climate policy, biodiversity, climate, water management, environmental, and development issues.
"The past recipients of this award represent the epitome of Dutch academia, so I am proud to be considered alongside them"
Congratulating Gupta on her achievement, IHE Delft Rector Eddy Moors states, "We extend our warmest congratulations to Professor Joyeeta Gupta on being awarded the prestigious Spinoza Prize. This well-deserved recognition highlights her outstanding contributions to the field of water resources and the environment. Professor Gupta's dedication and innovative research have greatly enriched our institution and advanced our understanding of pressing global challenges. We are immensely proud to have her as a valued member of the IHE Delft community."
In a recent project undertaken by Gupta and colleagues from around the world for the Earth Commission, the team aimed to quantify the worldwide minimum needs in terms of food, water, shelter, and infrastructure, and explored the implications of meeting those minimums in terms of global emissions. Their results revealed that meeting these minimum needs would exceed safe planetary boundaries unless we fundamentally redesign the way our societies operate. A subsequent paper identified safe and just Earth system boundaries. This research was published in Nature and received extensive media coverage worldwide.
"This well-deserved recognition highlights her outstanding contributions to the field of water resources and the environment"
Association with IHE Delft
Joyeeta Gupta's association with IHE Delft spans 20 years. IHE Delft is proud to witness her being honoured for her significant contributions in the fields of policy, economics, and law, particularly in relation to international environmental agreements where climate and water are crucial," said Johan Aad van Dijk, Business Director at IHE Delft. Gupta's research at IHE Delft focuses on critical aspects of water resources and the environment.
As a Professor of Law and Policy in Water Resources and Environment, Gupta adopts interdisciplinary approaches to address complex global challenges. Through collaborations with stakeholders and policymakers, Gupta's research informs decision-making and advances sustainable water management. Her research exemplifies IHE Delft's commitment to excellence in water education and research, driving positive change for societies and the environment.