Deaths on January 23

Yuri Izrael, Russian meteorologist and journalist (b. 1930)

Yuri Antonovich Izrael: A Prominent Figure in Global Climate and Meteorological Science

Yuri Antonovich Izrael (Russian: Юрий Антониевич Израэль; born 15 May 1930 in Tashkent, died 23 January 2014 in Moscow) was a highly influential Russian scientist whose career significantly impacted both national and international climate and meteorological research and policy. His extensive work spanned decades, earning him global recognition for his dedication to understanding and addressing environmental challenges.

Key Leadership Roles and Influence

Izrael held several pivotal positions that underscored his scientific authority and influence:

• Vice-Chairman of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC): He served as a vice-chairman of the IPCC until September 2008, a period during which the organization's new bureau was elected. The IPCC is the leading international body for assessing climate change, established in 1988 by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). Its primary role is to provide governments at all levels with scientific information that they can use to develop climate policies. His contributions were particularly crucial to the "success of Working Group II" of the IPCC, which focuses specifically on the impacts of climate change, adaptation strategies to these impacts, and the vulnerability of various systems and regions to climate change.
• Influential Scientific Adviser to the Russian President: According to CNN, Yuri Izrael was regarded as the "most influential scientific adviser" for Vladimir Putin, the president of Russia. This designation highlights his significant role in shaping Russia's scientific policy, particularly concerning environmental and climate issues, and demonstrates the high regard in which his expertise was held within the highest levels of government.
• Chairman of the Committee for Hydrometeorology: Domestically, Izrael previously chaired the Committee for Hydrometeorology, a crucial governmental body in Russia responsible for overseeing national meteorological services, climate monitoring, and hydrometeorological research. This role placed him at the forefront of Russia's efforts to observe, analyze, and predict weather and climate patterns.
• Director of the Institute of Global Climate and Ecology: He also served as the director of the Institute of Global Climate and Ecology. This significant research institution is an integral part of the esteemed Russian Academy of Sciences, dedicated to conducting advanced research on global climate phenomena, ecological processes, and their interactions, contributing vital data and insights to both national and international scientific communities.
• First Vice-President of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO): On the international stage, Izrael held the distinguished position of first vice-president of the World Meteorological Organization. The WMO is a specialized agency of the United Nations for meteorology (weather and climate), operational hydrology (water), and related geophysical sciences. His leadership within the WMO facilitated global cooperation and coordination in these critical scientific fields.
• Developer of the World Weather Watch (WWW): Izrael was instrumental in the development of the World Weather Watch (WWW). The WWW is a monumental program initiated by the WMO, providing a framework for international cooperation in meteorology. It integrates global observing systems, telecommunication networks, and data processing centers from around the world to ensure the rapid exchange and analysis of meteorological and climate data, which is fundamental for accurate weather forecasting and climate monitoring worldwide.

Awards and Global Recognition

Yuri Izrael's profound contributions to environmental science, meteorology, and international cooperation were recognized with prestigious global accolades:

• International Meteorological Organization Prize (1992): This is the highest award granted by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), established in 1955 to commemorate the International Meteorological Organization (IMO), the non-governmental predecessor of the WMO. It is awarded annually for outstanding contributions in the field of meteorology.
• UNEP Sasakawa Environment Prize (1992): Awarded by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Sasakawa Environment Prize is one of the most prestigious global environmental awards. It recognizes individuals and institutions that have made outstanding contributions to the protection and management of the environment.

These awards underscored his pivotal role in advancing scientific understanding and fostering international collaboration on critical environmental and climate issues, solidifying his legacy as a leading figure in global environmental governance and science.

Frequently Asked Questions About Yuri Antonovich Izrael

What was Yuri Izrael's primary area of expertise?

Yuri Izrael's primary expertise spanned meteorology, climate science, and environmental monitoring, with a significant focus on global climate change and its impacts.

What was his most prominent role in the IPCC?

He served as a vice-chairman of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) until September 2008, where he notably contributed to the success of Working Group II, which assesses the impacts of climate change, adaptation, and vulnerability.

What is the World Weather Watch, and what was Izrael's role in it?

The World Weather Watch (WWW) is a global system established by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) for observing, collecting, processing, and distributing meteorological data. Yuri Izrael played an instrumental role in its development, significantly contributing to international cooperation in weather and climate monitoring.

Which major awards did Yuri Izrael receive for his work?

In 1992, Yuri Izrael received two highly prestigious awards: the International Meteorological Organization Prize, the highest honor from the WMO, and the UNEP Sasakawa Environment Prize, a significant global environmental award from the United Nations Environment Programme.

What was his connection to the Russian government?

Yuri Izrael was recognized by CNN as the "most influential scientific adviser" for Vladimir Putin, the president of Russia, indicating his significant influence on national scientific and environmental policy.