President Tommy Remengesau, Jr.

In 2014, the voice for the environment in the united nations system, the United Nations Environmental Programme, awarded Remengesau with its top accolade -- The Champion of the Earth award for his visionary leadership in strengthening Palau’s economic resilience by spearheading national initiatives to protect its biodiversity. Also in 2014, the environmental organization, Rare, presented Remengesau with its first Inspiring Conservation Award for his innovative and inspiring work to preserve Palau's marine resources. In 2007, Time Magazine named him one of the heroes of the environment for initiatives such as the Micronesia Challenge. President Remengesau is now spearheading an historic effort to establish a marine sanctuary covering 80% of Palau’s territorial waters, providing even greater protection for Palau’s environment while further enhancing Palau’s tourism revenues.