Alain Hubert

A civil engineer by training, Alain Hubert is also a carpenter, entrepreneur, explorer and certified mountain guide, greatly interested in environmental issues and sustainable development.

He has made a large number of expeditions in the extreme weather conditions of very high mountains and polar regions, including a first crossing of the Antarctic continent in 99 days in autonomy. He is the author of several books and the co-producer of films about his expeditions.

The observations he made in these fragile regions convinced him of the importance of the current challenges in relation to climate change and the indispensable role of science in finding solutions. He is an active supporter of sustainable development and he includes in all his adventures a pedagogical and educational aspect.

In 2002, Alain Hubert set up the International Polar Foundation (www.polarfoundation.org) together with Professors André Berger and Hugo Decleir. Its objective is to communicate and educate on polar research as a way to understand key environmental and climate mechanisms.

Since 2004, Alain Hubert and the IPF have been working on the design and construction of the polar research station Princess Elisabeth Antarctica, the first “carbon zero emission” station in the world. Its official inauguration is planned for February 2009.

Alain Hubert received the 2003 Georges Lemaître prize for his dedication to the widespread dissemination of scientific information and for his involvement in important socio-ecological issues thereby providing publicity and support for the work of many researchers.

In 2008, he was one of the first winners of an award from the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation for his vision and commitment against climate change.

Alain Hubert is Grand Officier de l’Ordre de la Couronne and a UNICEF Ambassador.