Professor Arthur P.J. Mol honorary doctorate of SGGW

Outstanding Achievements of Professor Arthur P.J. Mol

Professor Arthur P.J. Mol of Wageningen University & Research (WUR) was awarded an honorary doctorate by SGGW in recognition of his outstanding contributions to sustainability science and environmental policy. His research focuses on analyzing changes in environmental systems within the context of global challenges such as climate change, waste management, and biodiversity conservation.

Professor Mol is renowned for developing the concept of ecological modernisation, a globally recognized framework for transforming economies toward sustainable development. His groundbreaking work has established new directions in environmental and social policy, emphasizing the integration of technology, regulation, and social initiatives to mitigate human impacts on the environment.

As Rector of Wageningen University (2015–2024), Professor Mol spearheaded numerous research and education programs that significantly advanced global academic collaboration in the natural and social sciences. He also co-founded the SUSTAIN LIFE European University, in which SGGW is a key partner, and championed interdisciplinary approaches to solving environmental challenges.

Words of Appreciation for Prof. Arthur P.J. Mol

During his address, Prof. Dr. Michał Zasada, Rector of SGGW, highlighted that the honorary doctorate reflects Professor Mol’s exceptional scientific, organizational, and educational achievements.

“Thanks to Professor Mol’s commitment, our university has successfully co-created initiatives such as the SUSTAIN LIFE European University, promoting sustainable development through the integration of research, education, and innovation,” said the Rector.

He further emphasized Professor Mol’s pivotal role in strengthening collaboration between SGGW and one of the world’s leading life sciences universities. “The internationalization of science requires the exchange of ideas and cooperation across borders. Professor Mol exemplifies how such efforts drive progress in science and society,” Prof. Zasada added.

Guests of Honour and Presentation of Diplomas

The ceremony brought together distinguished guests, including:

• Ada Guźniczak, Head of the Political Cabinet of the Minister of National Education,
• Piotr Szczepański, Head of the Political Cabinet of the Minister of Climate and Environment,
• Prof. Leszek Żukowski, former President of the World Association of Home Army Soldiers and honorary doctor of SGGW.

The event was also attended by rectors, vice-rectors, and representatives of numerous universities, among them:

• Archbishop Prof. Jerzy Pańkowski, Rector of the Christian Academy of Theology,
• Prof. Krzysztof Filipiak, Rector of the Maria Skłodowska-Curie Medical University in Warsaw,
• Prof. Agnieszka Chłoń-Domińczak, Vice-Chancellor of the Warsaw School of Economics,
• Prof. Michał Banaszak, Vice-Chancellor of Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań,
• Prof. Karolina Pawlak, Vice-Rector of the Poznań University of Life Sciences,
• Prof. Mark Gugała, Vice-Rector of the University of Siedlce,
• Prof. Arnold Bregt, Vice-Rector of Wageningen University,
• Prof. Agata Włodkowska-Bagan, Vice-Chancellor of the Vistula University of Finance and Business,
• Senior Brigadier Dr. Robert Piec, Director of the Institute of Internal Security of the Fire Academy,
• Prof. Jarosław Gryz, representing the Academy of Military Arts.

Additionally, representatives of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands were present, including Mr. Jouke Knol, Counsellor for Agriculture, and Mr. Olaf Horbańczuk, Advisor on Agricultural Policy. The event also welcomed local authorities, such as Mr. Rafał Miastkowski, Mayor of the Mokotów District.

Honoured Professors, Postdoctoral Fellows, and Doctors

During the ceremony, diplomas were awarded to:

• 13 habilitated doctors, 12 of whom are SGGW employees,
• 26 PhDs, including 13 employed by SGGW.

The occasion also served to honor distinguished SGGW professors with the Medal of the Commission of National Education. Recipients included:

• Dr. hab. Barbara Gołębiewska, Prof. SGGW,
• Prof. Dr. Joanna Grotowska-Leder,
• Prof. Dr. Ivan Kernytskyy,
• Wojciech Pizło, PhD, Professor at SGGW,
• Wojciech Sas, PhD, Professor at SGGW,
• Prof. Axel Schwerk, PhD,
• Irena Suwara, PhD, Professor at SGGW.

Additionally, Piotr Wertenstein-Żuławski, Councillor of the City of Warsaw, presented the Award of Honour for Service to Warsaw to Dr. Paweł Obstawski, SGGW Professor.

Inspiration for the Young Generation

In his closing remarks, Rector Zasada underscored that Professor Mol’s achievements are not only a testament to his scientific excellence but also a source of inspiration for aspiring researchers.

“I believe that Professor Mol’s presence, attitude, and accomplishments will inspire everyone to boldly take on challenges, both scientific and beyond,” said Prof. Zasada.