Caroline Malagutti Fassina | Environmental Science | Breakthrough Research Award

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Ms. Caroline Malagutti Fassina | Environmental Science | Breakthrough Research Award

Blue Projects Manager at Santos Technological Park, Brazil

Caroline Malagutti Fassina, Ph.D., is an accomplished Brazilian environmental scientist and advisor with over 15 years of experience in ecosystem governance, climate policy, and marine conservation. Currently serving as a Science Advisor in the Santos Municipality’s Innovation Park, she holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences from the State University of Campinas. Her research spans biodiversity offsets, environmental valuation, and climate justice, with international collaborations in Brazil, Australia, and the UK. Dr. Fassina has led and contributed to numerous funded projects, including BRANDED OCEAN and FISHERVOICES, and published in respected journals such as Ecosystem Services and Marine Policy. She bridges academic research and public policy, organizing environmental education initiatives and advising on sustainable development. Fluent in English and active in global networks like the Ecosystem Services Partnership, she is recognized for amplifying underrepresented voices, particularly fisherwomen, in climate adaptation efforts. Dr. Fassina exemplifies interdisciplinary leadership committed to inclusive and impactful environmental solutions.

Professional Profile 

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Scopus Profile

Education

Caroline Malagutti Fassina holds a robust academic background rooted in environmental science and coastal management. She earned her Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences from the State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Brazil, where she explored the complexities of ecosystem service valuation and biodiversity offset policies in Brazil and Australia. Her thesis critically assessed the commodification of nature through international offset mechanisms. Prior to that, she completed her Master’s degree in Integrated Environmental Analysis at the Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), focusing on marine ecosystems. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor’s in Coastal Management from Paulista State University, reflecting her early commitment to sustainability in coastal regions. Her education is complemented by international certifications and trainings, including capacity-building with UNESCO and environmental law workshops. This strong academic foundation supports her interdisciplinary approach to marine policy, environmental justice, and urban sustainability, combining both theoretical and applied dimensions of environmental governance.

Professional Experience

Dr. Fassina has held diverse and impactful roles across public service, academia, and international research. She currently serves as Science Advisor and Public Fundraising Coordinator for the Science, Technology and Innovation Park of Santos Municipality. Since 2011, she has worked as an Environmental Officer in various departments within the Santos Environmental Secretariat, including environmental inspection, licensing, and strategic advisory roles. She also served as Group Leader of the Environmental Inspection Division and was a council member for the São Paulo Marine Protected Area. Her postdoctoral work includes the BRANDED OCEAN project under FAPESP, and she is currently involved in the international EXTENDING RESPONSIBILITY initiative. Caroline’s experience reflects a blend of hands-on environmental regulation, urban sustainability planning, and scientific leadership. She also contributes to education through public speaking, mentoring, and organizing community outreach events like the Environmental Film Week. Her career demonstrates a long-term commitment to integrating science with public policy.

Research Interest

Caroline Fassina’s research interests lie at the intersection of environmental policy, ecosystem services, marine governance, and climate justice. She is particularly focused on biodiversity offsets, environmental valuation, and the governance of natural resources in urban and coastal zones. Her Ph.D. work compared offset practices between Brazil and Australia, questioning the commodification of nature in different regulatory contexts. More recently, she has expanded her work to include the cumulative impacts of port infrastructure on marine ecosystems, gendered dimensions of climate adaptation—especially the voices of fisherwomen—and transboundary environmental accountability linked to global trade. She is committed to interdisciplinary approaches, often integrating ecological economics, environmental sociology, and policy analysis. Caroline also explores environmental communication and the role of local governments in addressing global environmental challenges. Her research is both academic and applied, aiming to influence public policy and international frameworks for sustainable development, with a strong emphasis on social inclusion and ecological equity.

Award and Honor

Throughout her career, Dr. Caroline Fassina has received numerous grants and fellowships that reflect the originality and impact of her research. Her early scientific work was supported by the São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP) during her undergraduate and doctoral studies. In 2019, she was awarded a prestigious internationalization grant from CAPES for her research on biodiversity offsets in Brazil and Australia. She also secured funding from the British Council for the FISHERVOICES project, which amplified the perspectives of fisherwomen in climate policy discussions. In 2023, she received the Young Doctors Nationalization Grant from FAPESP for her BRANDED OCEAN postdoctoral project. Most recently, she began work under a major grant from Brazil’s Science and Technology Ministry to study marine litter and global trade. In addition to research funding, she has been selected as a speaker and participant in influential global programs and conferences, marking her as a recognized leader in environmental research and public engagement.

Conclusion

Caroline Malagutti Fassina is a dynamic and visionary environmental scientist whose work bridges academia, public policy, and grassroots environmental action. With a solid foundation in coastal and environmental science, she has translated her expertise into impactful public service roles and internationally relevant research. Her career reflects a deep commitment to ecological sustainability, social justice, and inclusive governance, particularly in vulnerable coastal communities. From local environmental inspections to advising major international research initiatives, Caroline consistently integrates science with actionable policy solutions. Her contributions to environmental valuation, marine policy, and climate adaptation—especially gender-sensitive approaches—position her as a rising leader in the global environmental arena. Her growing portfolio of publications, grants, and public engagement initiatives demonstrates both intellectual depth and civic responsibility. Dr. Fassina embodies the qualities of an interdisciplinary scholar-practitioner whose work is shaping a more just and resilient environmental future. She is a highly suitable candidate for honors such as the Breakthrough Research Award.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Governance challenges for the newest Brazilian marine protected areas: Preliminary considerations for stakeholder participation

    • Authors: C.M. Fassina, D.H.Q. Telles, A.C.A. Mazzuco

    • Year: 2020

    • Citations: 12

  • Title: Valuation of ecosystem services through offsets: Why are coastal ecosystems more valuable in Australia than in Brazil?

    • Authors: C. Fassina, D. Jarvis, S. Tavares, A. Coggan

    • Year: 2022

    • Citations: 9

  • Title: Convivencialidade e sustentabilidade: estudos de caso sobre a governança de recursos naturais no Brasil

    • Authors: T. Juliano, C.M. Fassina, C.I.B. Silva, F.A.V. Andrade, E.P.S. Leão Neto

    • Year: 2024

  • Title: Conviviality and sustainability: Case studies on the governance of natural resources in Brazil

    • Authors: T. Juliano, C.M. Fassina, C.I.B. Silva, F.A.V. Andrade, E.P.S. Leão Neto

    • Year: 2024

  • Title: O clima como novo comum urbano: conforto térmico na agenda do direito à cidade

    • Authors: J. Nichi, C.M. Fassina, M.R.C. Soeira

    • Year: 2023

  • Title: Versão Final

    • Authors: APDES DA MATA

    • Year: 2021

  • Title: A ecologia urbana em prol da infraestrutura verde: cenários de adesão e efeitos na drenagem em Santos, São Paulo

    • Author: C.M. Fassina (Master’s thesis)

    • Year: 2016

Jan Vlok Nelson | Environmental Science | Outstanding Scientist Award

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Mr. Jan Vlok Nelson | Environmental Science | Outstanding Scientist Award

Self employed at Mandela University, South Africa

Jan Vlok is a distinguished South African botanist and environmental scientist with over four decades of experience in plant ecology and conservation. Holding an MSc (Cum Laude) from the University of Natal, he has authored more than 50 scientific and popular publications and a book, earning over 1,700 citations. Vlok has made substantial contributions to vegetation classification and restoration, serving as a consultant to organizations like WWF-SA, SANPARKS, and CapeNature, with his work leading to land acquisitions exceeding R30 million. He is a recognized public communicator, having delivered over 300 outreach presentations, and has been honored with multiple prestigious awards, including the Marloth and Leslie Hill Medals. As a registered botanical scientist with SACNASP and a research associate at Nelson Mandela University, Vlok’s impact spans both scientific and practical realms. His lifelong dedication to South Africa’s biodiversity and environmental stewardship positions him as a leading figure in conservation science.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile
ORCID Profile

Education

Jan Vlok began his academic journey at Bellville High School, matriculating in 1975. He pursued his early tertiary education at Saasveld Forestry College, where he earned a Diploma in Forestry in 1982. Recognizing the need for deeper scientific training, he later completed his Master of Science degree (Cum Laude) at the University of Natal in 1997. His MSc studies provided a strong academic foundation in ecology and plant sciences, further enhancing his ability to contribute meaningfully to environmental research and management. Despite not holding a PhD, Vlok’s academic work and extensive field expertise have earned him considerable recognition within the scientific community. His education has supported a career deeply rooted in applied ecology, blending academic knowledge with practical environmental solutions. His continuous professional development and self-driven learning have enabled him to remain a respected figure in conservation, particularly in vegetation classification and restoration within South Africa’s diverse ecosystems.

Professional Experience

Jan Vlok has amassed over 40 years of professional experience in botany and environmental consultancy. He began his career in 1982 with the Department of Forestry, later transitioning to the Department of Water Affairs, Forestry, and Environmental Affairs as a research technician. From 1990 to 1997, he served as a regional botanist at Cape Nature Conservation, where he deepened his specialization in South African vegetation. Since 1997, he has operated independently as an environmental advisor through Regalis Environmental Services. In this role, Vlok has consulted for key institutions such as WWF-SA, SANPARKS, and CapeNature, contributing to major conservation and land acquisition projects. His expertise has informed numerous environmental impact assessments, restoration plans, and conservation strategies. As an expert witness in court cases and a referee for scientific journals and grants, Vlok holds a respected advisory role. His practical fieldwork and consulting achievements highlight a career defined by impact and integrity.

Research Interest

Jan Vlok’s research interests lie primarily in plant ecology, vegetation classification, and conservation biology, particularly within the unique biomes of South Africa such as Fynbos, Succulent Karoo, Forests, and Subtropical Thicket. His work is grounded in applied ecological research aimed at informing conservation strategies and land-use planning. A key focus of his studies has been the mapping and ecological description of vegetation units, often contributing directly to conservation priorities and land acquisition decisions. Vlok is also involved in ecological restoration, particularly in designing sustainable strategies for disturbed ecosystems. His work bridges scientific inquiry with real-world application, making him a sought-after consultant in environmental management and biodiversity planning. His communication of research findings to both scientific audiences and the general public reflects a broader interest in conservation education and public engagement. Vlok’s commitment to preserving South Africa’s botanical heritage is reflected in his continual research contributions, both independently and collaboratively.

Award and Honor

Jan Vlok has received numerous accolades recognizing his outstanding contributions to botany and conservation. Among his most notable honors are the Leslie Hill Medal (2003) from the Succulent Society of South Africa and the Marloth Medal (2010) from the Botanical Society of South Africa—both prestigious awards in South African botanical science. In 2006, he received a Gold Award from the C.A.P.E. program and a Certificate of Appreciation from the Western Cape Conservation Stewardship Association, further affirming his role in promoting sustainable land management and conservation. CapeNature recognized him in 2008 with a Special Award for his contributions to ecological assessment and stewardship. These awards reflect a career characterized by both scientific excellence and practical environmental impact. Vlok’s work is respected not only by academic peers but also by government bodies and conservation organizations, marking him as a leader in his field and a role model in South African environmental science.

Conclusion

Jan Vlok exemplifies the ideal of a scientist whose work extends far beyond academia into meaningful, real-world conservation impact. With over four decades of experience, his career blends rigorous ecological research, practical fieldwork, and a deep commitment to preserving South Africa’s rich botanical heritage. His contributions have shaped conservation policy, led to significant land acquisitions for environmental protection, and engaged both scientific and public audiences. Vlok’s numerous awards, consulting roles, and scientific publications reflect a lifetime dedicated to excellence in botany and ecological sustainability. Though lacking a PhD, his field expertise, advisory roles, and influence across conservation sectors underscore his unique value as a practitioner-scholar. His ability to translate complex ecological knowledge into applied solutions and public education marks him as a leader not only in science but in environmental stewardship. Jan Vlok’s legacy is one of action, influence, and deep care for South Africa’s natural world.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Parent versus seedling survival in Watsonia fourcadei (Iridaceae); testing a hypothesis on the survival strategy of a Cape geophyte

    • Author: Vlok, Johannes H.J.

    • Year: 2025

  • Title: New species of Euryops (Asteraceae: Senecioneae) from the Klein Karoo in the Western Cape Province, South Africa

    • Author: Vlok, Johannes H.J.

    • Year: 2025

Marija Koprivica | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Marija Koprivica | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Research Associate at Institute for Technology of Nuclear and Other Mineral Raw Materials, Serbia

Dr. Marija R. Koprivica (née Stanojević) is a dedicated researcher in the fields of biomass conversion, renewable energy, and environmental biotechnology. With a strong academic background and extensive experience in analytical chemistry, she contributes to advancements in environmental protection and waste management. Dr. Koprivica is currently a Research Associate at the Institute for Technology of Nuclear and Other Mineral Raw Materials (ITNMS) in Belgrade, Serbia.

Profile

Scopus Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Koprivica completed her educational journey at the Faculty of Chemistry, University of Belgrade. She earned her Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry in 2020, following a Master’s degree in the same field in 2012. Earlier, she obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Chemistry in 2011, laying a solid foundation for her research career.

Experience 💼

Dr. Koprivica has been with the ITNMS since 2014, progressing from Junior Research Assistant to Research Assistant, and currently holds the position of Research Associate since 2020. Her work involves various aspects of analytical chemistry, sample preparation, and material characterization, specifically focusing on biomass conversion processes.

Research Interests 🔬

Her primary research interests encompass biomass and its conversion technologies, including pyrolysis and hydrothermal carbonization. She is particularly focused on the production of biochar and hydrochar, as well as their applications in environmental protection and waste management. Additionally, Dr. Koprivica employs biosorption techniques to enhance environmental sustainability.

Publications 📚

Dr. Koprivica has authored several notable publications. Some of her key works include:

    • Efficient Adsorption of Pollutants from Aqueous Solutions by Hydrochar-Based Hierarchical Porous Carbons
      • Authors: Ercegović, M., Petrović, J., Koprivica, M., Vuković, N., Krstić, J.
      • Journal: Water (Switzerland)
      • Year: 2024
      • Citations: 0
    • Improvement of combustible characteristics of Paulownia leaves via hydrothermal carbonization
      • Authors: Koprivica, M., Petrović, J., Ercegović, M., Šoštarić, T., Dimitrijević, J.
      • Journal: Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery
      • Year: 2024
      • Citations: 7
    • Hydrothermal Carbonization of Waste Biomass: A Review of Hydrochar Preparation and Environmental Application
      • Authors: Petrović, J., Ercegović, M., Simić, M., Jovanović, A., Janković Pantić, J.
      • Journal: Processes
      • Year: 2024
      • Citations: 9
    • Ability of Deep Eutectic Solvent Modified Oat Straw for Cu(II), Zn(II), and Se(IV) Ions Removal
      • Authors: Dimitrijević, J., Jevtić, S., Marinković, A., Koprivica, M., Petrović, J.
      • Journal: Processes
      • Year: 2023
      • Citations: 0
    • Evaluation of Adsorption Efficiency on Pb(II) Ions Removal Using Alkali-Modified Hydrochar from Paulownia Leaves
      • Authors: Koprivica, M., Simić, M., Petrović, J., Ercegović, M., Dimitrijević, J.
      • Journal: Processes
      • Year: 2023
      • Citations: 11

For a complete list of her publications, please refer to her Scopus profile and ORCID.

Conclusion 🔍

Dr. Marija R. Koprivica’s contributions to renewable energy and environmental biotechnology reflect her commitment to advancing sustainable practices. Her expertise in analytical chemistry and her systematic approach to research continue to drive impactful solutions in waste management and environmental protection.

Binghui He | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Binghui He | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Professor, Southwest University, China

🌍 Binghui He is a renowned professor specializing in soil erosion, soil and water conservation. With significant contributions to the field, he serves as the Director of the Special Committee of Soil and Water Conservation at the Chongqing Soil Society. His expertise is recognized nationally, making him a pivotal figure in agricultural non-point source pollution control.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Expertise in Soil and Water Conservation: As the Director of the Special Committee of Soil and Water Conservation and the China Society of Soil and Water Conservation, Professor He demonstrates leadership and a deep commitment to advancing this critical field.
  2. Extensive Publication Record: His publications in reputable journals such as Catena and Science of the Total Environment showcase a robust research portfolio with a focus on innovative and relevant topics, including soil erosion, hydrology, and nutrient loss.
  3. Impactful Research: The studies conducted under his guidance reveal significant contributions to understanding soil health and water conservation, with findings that have practical implications for agricultural practices and ecological management.
  4. Interdisciplinary Approach: His research integrates various disciplines, such as hydrology and ecology, addressing complex environmental issues, which enhances the relevance and applicability of his work.
  5. Leadership Roles: Serving as an academic and technical leader in soil and water conservation disciplines highlights his influence in shaping research agendas and fostering collaboration within the field.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Outreach: While his research is substantial, enhancing public engagement and outreach activities could further disseminate his findings and increase their impact on policy and community practices.
  2. Collaboration with Industry: Establishing more partnerships with agricultural and environmental industries could facilitate the practical application of his research findings, bridging the gap between academia and real-world challenges.
  3. Diversity of Research Topics: Exploring additional areas within environmental science or engaging in interdisciplinary projects could broaden the scope of his research and attract diverse funding opportunities.

Education

🎓 Professor He earned his academic qualifications from esteemed institutions, focusing on soil and water conservation techniques and ecological engineering.

Experience

🏢 With extensive experience, Professor He holds leadership roles in several professional organizations, including the China Society of Soil and Water Conservation and the South Soil and Water Conservation Research Association. He also directs the Chongqing Soil and Water Conservation Ecological Engineering Technology Research Center.

Research Focus

🔍 His research encompasses soil erosion, soil and water conservation, forest cultivation, and agricultural non-point source pollution control, emphasizing sustainable practices to enhance ecological resilience.

Awards and Honors

🏅 Professor He has received numerous accolades for his contributions to soil and water conservation, showcasing his commitment to environmental sustainability and research excellence.

Publication Top Notes

Zeng C, Li TY, He BH*, Feng MD, Liang K, Xu QW, Zhao XM. (2024). Vegetation succession increases soil organic carbon density and decreases soil erodibility: Evidence from a karst trough valley experiencing farmland abandonment. Catena.

Feng MD, Li TY, He BH*, Bai LX, Wu XY. (2022). Soil water repellency and microaggregate fractions in response to crop growth periods in a sloping cropland subjecting to long-term fertilization management. Science of the Total Environment.

Du YN, Li TY, He BH*. (2021). Runoff-related nutrient loss affected by fertilization and cultivation in sloping croplands: An 11-year observation under natural rainfall. Agriculture, Ecosystems and Environment.

Gan FL, He BH*, Qin ZY, Li WB. (2021). Contribution of bedrock dip angle impact to nitrogen and phosphorus leakage loss under artificial rainfall simulations on slopes parallel to and perpendicular to the bedrock dip in a karst trough valley. Catena.

Li TY, He BH*, Zhang YQ, Fu S, Zhang Y, Long XJ. (2021). Spatiotemporal dynamics of coupled dissolved silica and bicarbonate in a dam-induced urban lake system in the Three Gorges Reservoir Area. Journal of Hydrology.

Gan FL, He BH*, Qin ZY. (2020). Hydrological response and soil detachment rate from dip/anti-dip slopes as a function of rock strata dip in karst valley revealed by rainfall simulations. Journal of Hydrology.

Gan FL, He BH*, Qin ZY, Li WB. (2020). Role of rock dip angle in runoff and soil erosion processes on dip/anti-dip slopes in a karst trough valley. Journal of Hydrology.

Li TY, He BH*, Chen ZP, Zhang Y, Liang C. (2017). Effects of gravel on concentrated flow hydraulics and erosion in simulated landslide deposits. Catena.

Conclusion

Professor Binghui He is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His extensive research in soil erosion and water conservation, combined with his leadership roles and commitment to ecological sustainability, position him as a prominent figure in his field. By enhancing public outreach and fostering industry collaborations, he can amplify the impact of his research even further. Overall, his contributions significantly advance knowledge and practice in soil and water conservation, making him an exemplary choice for this recognition.