News of Norway, issue 3, 2000
The Sophie Prize, awarded annually by a Norwegian-based environmental organization, was presented in Oslo June 14 to Liao Xiaoyi, a Chinese journalist, for her pioneering efforts to combat pollution in China. The $100,000 annual award was established in 1997 by author Jostein Gaarder and funded by proceeds of his best selling classic novel 'Sophie's World.'
Global Village of Beijing
Ms. Liao, also known as Sheri Liao, was cited for her extraordinary efforts in reaching out to the Chinese population and promoting environmental awareness. Through the Global Village of Beijing, which she founded in 1996, Liao and her associates work diligently to instill environmentally sound values, such as conservation, gardening and recycling through various community programs.
'Sheri Liao is an environmental crusader why is tirelessly dedicated to protecting the environment in China,' said Jostein Gaarder, founder of The Sophie Foundation.
New Chinese environmental movement
Beijing has resulted in a new environmental movement in China that advocates for pollution control, environmentally sound resource management and sustainable lifestyles.
While visiting Norway, Liao will produce a television program about Norway's environmental work, which will then be televised on Chinese TV.
Liao was one of seven environmental specialists who participated in a panel discussion with President Clinton during his 1998 visit to China.
Liao Xiaoyi was born in Sichuan, China, in 1954. After receiving a master's degree in philosophy from Sichuan University in 1986, she became a researcher at the China Academy of Social Science. She also lectured extensively in philosophy at her alma mater for several years.
Facts/ The Sophie Prize
The Sophie Prize recognizes an individual or group for outstanding achievement in the field of international development and environmental protection. In particular, the Sophie Prize is designed to highlight those who have meet their goals in an innovative and special way. The Sophie Foundation was established in 1997 following an initiative by Norwegian author Jostein Gaarder and his wife, Siri Dannevig.