Laércio Couto received the prize for his innovative research on short rotation eucalyptus in Brazil, and for working with industry to implement the use of eucalyptus in high density, short rotation plantations not only for the forest industry but also for the production of biomass for energy.Laércio Couto was one of around 90 nominated candidates for the World Bio Energy award. Seven were nominated to the final decision. The other finalists came from Canada, Finland, India, New Zealand, Sweden and USA.