Through the scientific reports it has issued over the past two decades, the IPCC has created an ever-broader informed consensus about the connection between human activities and global warming. Thousands of scientists and officials from over one hundred countries have collaborated to achieve greater certainty as to the scale of the warming. Whereas in the 1980s global warming seemed to be merely an interesting hypothesis, the 1990s produced firmer evidence in its support. In the last few years, the connections have become even clearer and the consequences still more apparent.

Al Gore has for a long time been one of the world’s leading environmentalist politicians. He became aware at an early stage of the climatic challenges the world is facing. His strong commitment, reflected in political activity, lectures, films and books, has strengthened the struggle against climate change. He is probably the single individual who has done most to create greater worldwide understanding of the measures that need to be adopted.

By awarding the Nobel Peace Prize for 2007 to the IPCC and Al Gore, the Norwegian Nobel Committee is seeking to contribute to a sharper focus on the processes and decisions that appear to be necessary to protect the world’s future climate, and thereby to reduce the threat to the security of mankind. Action is necessary now, before climate change moves beyond man’s control.

And earlier today, Senator John Kerry officially weighed in on the occasion of Mr. Gore’s elevation to the rarified ranks of Nobel Prize winners as well:

This is not only an incredibly well deserved honor for Vice President Gore, it reflects a global awakening to the urgency of taking action on global climate change. Way back when it wasn’t easy, Al Gore began criss-crossing the country and the planet to help bring the science of climate change to people everywhere in a compelling way. He’s been dogged and tenacious, and with the IPCC he’s stood up for the truth against the deniers and the dividers who want to delay action and risk global catastrophe. Their efforts have rightfully been recognized with the highest honor the world community can bestow on those who help define and meet the great challenges of our time.

Mr. Gore and Senator Kerry have been friends and colleagues for many years,and have worked closely together on environmental issues since their earliest years serving in the Senate together. Teresa Heinz Kerry has also been a lifelong advocate for positive health and environmental action. As Mr. Gore noted upon release of their book “This Moment on Earth” earlier this year,

John Kerry and Teresa Heinz have written a book that is a profound challenge to all of us but contains, in the examples of the men and women who are fighting the great fight for a better future for our environment, the clear hope that if we can embrace their resourcefulness, determination and essential patriotism we will prevail. Both John and Teresa have been long-time leaders in the battle to save the Earth’s environment. Way back when it was not all fashionable, indeed when very few people in the world were even paying attention to it, both John and Teresa were providing outstanding and courageous leadership.

We could say the same about Mr. Gore and his own tireless efforts over the years to pursue the goals of rational, responsible stewardship of the Earth and its resources. In fact, we have; and we no doubt will continue to do so in the future.

So it is with particular pride and pleasure that we’re all happy to add “Nobel Prize Laureate” to the list of the honors and titles that Al Gore, Jr. has accumulated during his lifetime of public service.

Congratulations, sir!