Nobel prize recognises climate crisis

By Richard Black Environment correspondent, BBC News website

Mr Gore has taken the message of climate change to the public. In awarding the Nobel Peace Prize to Al Gore and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the committee has signalled its view that climate change is now one of global society's defining security issues.

~MORE~


Indian's surprise at Nobel award

Indian scientist Rajendra Pachauri has spoken of his surprise at the UN panel he heads being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for its work on global warming.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and campaigner Al Gore were named as joint winners on Friday.

"I can't believe it. I'm overwhelmed," Dr Pachauri, 67, told well-wishers in the Indian capital, Delhi.

"The committee is trying to tell the world we need to do something about climate change urgently."

Praise for Gore

Dr Pachauri said he was "just a symbol" and credit was due to his organisation and its efforts.

"It is really the scientific community that contributes to the work of the IPCC and the governments who support the work of the IPCC who are really the winners of this award."

The message should go out to everyone - developed and developing countries - we are all in this together


He said he felt privileged to share the prize with "someone as distinguished" as the former US vice president.

"Al Gore certainly deserves it. The amount of effort he has put into creating awareness about climate change has had a major impact."

The two men spoke on the phone after the announcement.

"This is Pachy... I am certainly looking forward to working with you. I'll be your follower and you'll be my leader," Dr Pachauri said.

"Convey my congratulations to the IPCC," replied Mr Gore.