Each year The Edinburgh Medal is presented to those who have made a significant contribution to the wellbeing and understanding of humanity through the science. This year’s recipient is Prof Johan Rockström, an internationally recognised scientist whose work has redefined the way we understand and address global sustainability and Earth resilience.

In leading the development of the Planetary Boundaries framework, Prof Rockström has defined the safe limits for humans to operate within to ensure a stable and resilient Earth that will allow humanity to thrive for generations to come. This framework has been by embraced by governments, organisations and NGOs around the world to guide their approach to sustainable development. With more than 25 years’ experience in applied water research in tropical regions, he is also a leading scientist on global water resources.

Prof Rockström is Director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, Professor at the Institute of Earth and Environmental Science at Potsdam University and Professor in Water Systems and Global Sustainability at Stockholm University. He has received numerous awards most recently the Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement and the Virchow Prize towards Health for all in 2024. In 2023 he was recognised in TIME100: Most Influential People. Passionate about public engagement with global issues, his TED talks have over seven million views and his popular science books Big World, Small Planet, Breaking Boundaries and The Human Quest encourage a shift toward more sustainable management of planetary resources.

We are delighted that Prof Rockström will be joining us at this year’s Festival, with an address which examines Navigating Humanity’s future on Earth.

The Edinburgh Medal is awarded by the Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, with an oration to be delivered by Prof Mike Berners-Lee.