Two scientists from the United States and Canada have been named winners of this year's Japan Prize for their contributions to the development of environmentally sound materials and to marine biology.
The winners are John B. Goodenough, 78, a professor at the University of Texas, and Timothy R. Parsons, 68, a professor emeritus at the University of British Columbia.
Goodenough discovered lithium cobalt oxide, which has a layered structure. Batteries using the substance as a cathode are very light and have high energy density, and have become indispensable as power sources for various portable or mobile instruments.
"These batteries are not only environmentally benign but also very effective in the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions," the Science and Technology Foundation of Japan said.
Parsons has shown that ecosystem structure and function, as well as fish production, can be understood by the accurate measure of environmental parameters.
His holistic approach influenced many marine scientists and broke new ground in the management of fisheries.
The Japan Prize winners are selected from among scientists from all over the world, based on their contributions to the advancement of science and technology. Unlike the Nobel Prize, it also considers contributions to human well-being and world peace, the foundation said.
Goodenough and Parsons will visit Japan in April for the award presentation and lectures. The Emperor and Empress will attend the ceremony. The award includes 50 million yen each as prize money.