Pioneering individuals making a better world

The 2008 winners of the Rolex Awards have been announced. The Awards support extraordinary individuals and their innovative projects.

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  • By spreading the seeds of more than 60 species of fruit-bearing trees, the great hornbill (Buceros bocornis) plays a vital role in the regeneration of the vanishing rainforest of southern Thailand. Budo Mountain, Thailand, 1991

    Andrew Muir

    South Africa
    2008 Laureate

    Provide training and jobs to young people orphaned by Aids

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  • Weddell seals dive to depths of 500m to hunt their prey. Wilson’s logging device proves useful for the study their behaviour in places where zoologists cannot directly observe them. Drescher Inlet, Antarctica, 2004

    Tim Bauer

    United States
    2008 Laureate

    Reduce pollution from motorized tricycles in Asian cities

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  • Many aspects of Evenk culture, such as traditional dance and ritual activities, are presented at the nomadic school. Usmun river camp, Siberia, Russia, 2006

    Elsa Zaldívar

    Paraguay
    2008 Laureate

    Combine loofah and plastic waste to make low-cost housing

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  • The beauty and quality of Kutchi embroidery reflect the remarkable crafsmanship of the artisans who are the custodians of this unique cultural heritage. Hodko, Kutch, India, 2006

    Andrew McGonigle

    United Kingdom
    2008 Laureate

    Predict volcano eruptions using a remote-controlled helicopter

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  • Up to 20 metres long and weighting up to 20 tonnes, the whale shark is the world’s biggest living fish. Its non-predatory behaviour earned it the title of 'gentle giant'.

    Talal Akasheh

    Jordan
    2008 Laureate

    Conserve ancient Petra from the ravages of time and tourism

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