SARA BARSOTTI

“Woman and Environment” Award

Responsibility, cool-headedness, and an inexhaustible passion for her work: nothing resembles the profile of Sara Barsotti more. The daring guardian of Iceland's volcanoes, an undeniable example of how female empowerment and environmental protection can be two sides of the same coin. From Pisa to the Arctic Circle, from precarious researcher to coordinator of the volcanic risk service of the Icelandic Meteorological Office. In her hands, the fate of air traffic across Europe; along her path, the unstoppable strength of someone who has believed in her abilities and the clear madness of one who has transformed her life for a higher purpose. Her undeniable professionalism and multidisciplinary approach are now at the service of the safety of the most vulnerable communities, promoting a model of careful and responsible land management. In a field traditionally dominated by men, Sara is the emblem of a new leadership based on merit. And we hope she can guide new generations toward a concrete respect for both the planet and gender equality.