Taipei: For Susan Solomon, receiving the news that she had won the 2026 Tang Prize in Sustainable Development was both surreal and deeply humbling. "It's an incredible feeling," she told CNA in an interview, reflecting on joining a list of laureates she had long admired. "Jane Goodall, Gro Harlem Brundtland, Jim Hansen...these are amazing people that I enormously respect. I'm stunned."

According to Focus Taiwan, the recognition was fitting for a scientist whose work has fundamentally changed humanity's understanding of the atmosphere, yet it was not something Solomon said she has ever sought. "I'm actually a very shy person," she said. "I just wanted to bring some facts into the discussion."

Solomon's commitment to evidence began at an early age. At nine years old, she was inspired by watching French ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau on television, which sparked her interest in becoming a scientist. She eventually found her calling in atmospheric chemistry, a path that led her to the vast and untouched landscapes of Antarctica. The beauty and challenges of this environment left a lasting impression on her, reinforcing both the grandeur and fragility of nature.

At the age of 29, Solomon made a groundbreaking discovery explaining the Antarctic ozone hole. Unlike many established scientists who focused solely on gaseous reactions, Solomon considered surface chemistry, a perspective that transformed atmospheric science. Her work contributed to the success of the Montreal Protocol, an international agreement that phased out ozone-depleting chemicals, showcasing the power of collaboration among governments, scientists, and industries.

Throughout her career, Solomon has been involved in various scientific assessments, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in influencing policy. She highlighted the significance of scientists reaching a consensus to effectively inform policymakers.

Despite the environmental challenges faced, Solomon remains optimistic, citing humanity's past successes in addressing major issues such as leaded gasoline and urban smog. She noted the advancements in renewable technologies and the shift towards electric vehicles as signs of progress. As she prepared for her visit to Taiwan, Solomon hoped to inspire young people to focus on the victories achieved in environmental protection and to consider how they can contribute to the planet's future. "See what you can do to help the planet," she urged, emphasizing the ongoing need for collective action.