Mario J. Molina

Mario José Molina-Pasquel Henríquez was born on March 19, 1943, in Mexico City, Mexico. He showed an early interest in science and went on to become a leading figure in atmospheric chemistry. Molina eventually played a pivotal role in the scientific understanding of the ozone layer and its depletion, which earned him worldwide recognition and numerous prestigious awards.

In 1965, Mario Molina graduated with a degree in chemical engineering from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), marking the start of his distinguished academic career. This educational foundation paved the way for his future endeavors in atmospheric chemistry. His studies and experiences at UNAM were key in developing the analytical skills and scientific curiosity that informed his later research.

In 1973, Mario Molina co-authored a groundbreaking scientific paper with F. Sherwood Rowland on the impact of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) on the ozone layer. Their research demonstrated how CFCs release chlorine atoms upon exposure to ultraviolet radiation, which then catalyze the destruction of ozone molecules in the stratosphere. This work was instrumental in shaping public policy on environmental issues related to ozone depletion.

On March 16, 1995, Mario Molina testified before the U.S. Congress about the science behind stratospheric ozone depletion and its links to chlorofluorocarbon emissions. His testimony was pivotal in shaping legislative measures aimed at curbing the use of CFCs and supporting international agreements like the Montreal Protocol, reflecting his role in turning scientific understanding into actionable policy.

On December 10, 1995, Mario J. Molina was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry alongside Paul Crutzen and F. Sherwood Rowland for their work in atmospheric chemistry, particularly concerning the formation and decomposition of ozone. Their significant contributions provided a deeper understanding of chemical processes in the atmosphere and laid the foundation for regulatory policies aimed at protecting the ozone layer.

In December 2003, Mario Molina joined the faculty of the University of California, San Diego, where he continued his influential research on atmospheric chemistry and environmental policy. At UC San Diego, he was part of critical research initiatives and provided mentorship to students, impacting the next generation of scientists dedicated to addressing environmental challenges.

In June 2004, Mario Molina established the Molina Center for Energy and Environment in La Jolla, California. The center serves as a multidisciplinary research hub focused on advancing sustainable energy practices and environmental stewardship. Through international collaboration, the center aims to promote the development of energy solutions that reduce environmental risks and support global sustainability efforts.

In November 2005, Mario Molina was appointed to the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, an honor that highlights his standing as a scientist who made remarkable contributions to the understanding of environmental changes. The Vatican Council's recognition of his work underscores its significance across not just the scientific community, but also among wider societal and policy-making circles.

In 2008, Mario Molina was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States. This was in recognition of his influential efforts to understand and address the sobering challenge of atmospheric ozone depletion, as well as his contribution to safeguarding Earth’s environment and his lasting impact on both scientific inquiry and public policy.

Mario J. Molina passed away on October 7, 2020, at the age of 77. He left behind a legacy as a pioneering scientist whose research significantly improved our understanding of atmospheric chemistry and environmental science. Molina is remembered as a passionate advocate for science policy, and his work continues to inspire efforts in environmental protection and climate change mitigation globally.