Dr. Lott's profound expertise in the fields of energy and climate change is unmatched. With nearly two decades of experience as an engineer and adviser in the United States, Europe and Asia, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing clean energy solutions.

As the host of The Big Switch podcast, Dr. Lott is a leading voice in communicating climate science and solutions to a variety of audiences, including policymakers, the media and the general public. When we work together on The Big Switch podcast, I am continually inspired by her dedication to inclusivity and accurately representing the challenges and opportunities of the clean energy transition.

What truly sets Dr. Lott apart is her remarkable ability to communicate intricate concepts effectively — whether that’s to her students here at Columbia University or her colleagues in the climate and energy space. She possesses a unique talent for engaging diverse audiences, from experts to nonexperts, with clarity, respect and enthusiasm. Dr. Lott has a gift for distilling complex subjects into understandable and relatable information, making her an invaluable climate communicator. Her approach always respects the intelligence of her audience while preserving the nuance of the topics at hand.

Dr. Lott is not only a cherished member of the Columbia University community but also a beacon of hope within the broader climate community. In an era marked by growing uncertainty and climate pessimism, Dr. Lott serves as living proof that hope is firmly rooted in science.

I can think of no one else who is more deserving to receive the 2023 AGU Climate Communications Prize.

— Natalie Volk
Columbia University
New York, New York

It’s a privilege to join the ranks of fellow climate communicators whom I have long admired and respected. As a recipient of this prestigious prize, I am reminded of the profound obligation we, as scientists and educators, have in making science accessible, amplifying diverse perspectives, and raising awareness about the issues shaping our planet’s future. I am also struck by what a critical moment we are at right now in our response to climate change — and how profoundly the near-term choices that we make will impact our collective future.This is part of why receiving this award now is such a special honor for me. Growing up, I could never have imagined working in an era when science was advancing at such a pace and when our ability to access that science plus our capacity to communicate with one another would be so simple. And yet, armed with such knowledge and technologies, a lack of good communication and effective dialogue is, perhaps, one of the biggest obstacles we face in responding to the threat of climate change.The good news is that these challenges can be overcome. As scientists, we can find ways to communicate research and evidence in accessible ways that are set up to kick-start conversations. And we can listen attentively and find paths toward engaged, productive dialogues. Over the past two decades of my own career, I have seen how these dialogues can build bridges and break down barriers, accelerating progress toward our goals at a time where greater speed is sorely needed.In any career path, the steps we take are impacted by many around us, including the talented teams we collaborate with and learn from, the mentors and teachers we look to for advice, and the people who support us when we face challenges and move into uncharted waters. My own career has been influenced by too many people to thank in one short statement, but I would like to highlight a small number of them today. Thanks to Jason Bordoff, Michael Webber and Sheril Kirshenbaum for their mentorship, partnership and friendship; to my partner for supporting me and cheering me on as I push boundaries and dive into new challenges; and to my parents, who empowered me with their love and unwavering support, making me never doubt my ability to overcome challenges and have positive impacts in the world.Thank you again for this honor.— Melissa Lott, Columbia University, New York, New York