Awarding of environmental prize in Slovenia
Six works were shortlisted from the multitude of entries received. The submission by Aleksander Kravos of the Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology in Ljubljana, entitled ‘Chemical and ecotoxicological monitoring of the induced and natural abiotic degradation processes of phenolic pollutants’ took first prize.
Robert Čajić, CEO of Saubermacher Slovenia, spoke to the audience: ‘Innovation and passion are the ingredients that we need to achieve progress. These young scientists are pressing for new accomplishments in the circular economy. The focus on digitisation, creating value and sustainability is not just relevant, but essential. It is about preserving Slovenia as it is today for future generations. A carefully considered circular economy has a major role to play, alongside renewables and security of supply. With this in mind, we are honoured that the Environmental Prize has been awarded again and we are delighted that the younger generations are so full of new ideas and visions.’
Awards were handed out for master’s and bachelor’s dissertations focusing on digitisation, creating value and sustainability in the waste and recycling industry. The jury focused most particularly on concrete methods, originality and feasibility, as well on economic and ecological benefit in everyday life. The reduction of harmful emissions was also an important criterion.
Following the ceremony, guests were invited to visit the centre for hazardous waste in Kidričevo, where they learned about recycling processes and workflows.
