German Environment Award Split Between Two Winners

A biomechanical researcher and an entrepreneur will share the German Environment Award for 2003. Claus Matthek of Karlruhe and Hermann Josef Schulte of Menden were chosen by the 14 judges on the prize jury from 100 applicants from the science, research and business sectors. Bio-mechanic Matthek was selected because of his innovative insights into the load carrying capacity of trees. The scientist has incorporated his learnings about wood's ultimate strength and stableness into computer software now widely used in manufacturing. Schulte was chosen for his development of a carbon particle filter for diesel engines that lowers the risk of cancer for people who use them. The men will share the €500,000 prize money, which will presented by German President Johannes Rau in October.