Nobel Prize

In response to “Greening the Nobel Prize?” (by George E. Brown Jr., Op-Ed Page, Oct. 19), rather than create a new award category as suggested, recognition for outstanding environmental contributions is worthy of the Nobel Peace Prize.

Contributions in the area of environment are as much the “promotion of world peace” as they are the achievements of scientific understanding. Progress through science, for example, has broadened our knowledge of our actions’ “cause and effect” upon our environment and emphasizes that the impact has no regard for national boundaries.

Environmental contributions encompass the progress of worldwide efforts, in both scientific achievement and establishing peaceful coexistence of diverse cultures and nations, to balance the supply and demand challenges created by improved living standards and limited resources.

Would a Nobel Prize for environmental contributions motivate additional efforts in this area?

I don’t think motivation is the point as much as the recognition affirming the “value” placed on those efforts. The motivation is not a “prize” to be won, but rather the legacy we wish to leave our children.

KATHY AZEVEDO

Bakersfield