The 26-year-old postgraduate biology student from Fujian province works with local NGOs to protect and expand mangrove forests across southern China. Princess Anne presented Liu with the award at the Royal Geographical Society in London. As part of his prize, he receives a project grant of £30,000 (US$59,205).
"The aim of the Whitley Awards is to find and support the environmental leaders who are helping to build a future where nature and people co-exist in a way that benefits both," said Edward Whitley, founder of the Whitley Fund for Nature. "The example given by people
like Liu Yi is an inspiration for us all."
chinadialogue interviewed Liu earlier this week, and will publish a profile of his important work next week.
