Thai rural environmentalist wins 2022 Goldman Environmental Prize

18 Sept 00:42 Key points summarised by AI

Niwat Roykaew, a Thai teacher and dedicated protector of the Mekong River, was awarded the prestigious 2022 Goldman Environmental Prize for his grassroots efforts.
Witnessing the Mekong's degradation from Chinese dams, Roykaew founded the Chiang Khong conservation group in 1995 to address environmental and social issues caused by development projects.
He spearheaded a successful campaign against China's destructive rapids blasting project, mobilizing communities and NGOs, which ultimately led to the Thai government canceling the project in 2020.
Roykaew hopes the international recognition from the prize will elevate global awareness and maintain public attention on the critical environmental challenges facing the Mekong River.

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