Mario J. Molina

Chemistry Mexican-American 1943 – 2020 402 quotes

He was a co-recipient of the Nobel Prize for his role in elucidating the threat to the Earth's ozone layer from CFCs.

Most quoted

"Scientists can and should play a very important role in communicating to the public and to policy makers the risks and the opportunities associated with climate change."

— from Interview with The Nobel Prize organization, 2013

"Our work shows that these compounds are not inert, as was previously thought, but rather that they can have a significant impact on the Earth's protective ozone layer."

— from Stratospheric sink for chlorofluoromethanes: chlorine atom-catalyzed destruction of ozone, 1974

"The beauty of science lies in its ability to unravel the mysteries of nature, to reveal the intricate dance of atoms and molecules that govern our existence."

— from Various interviews and speeches

All quotes by Mario J. Molina (402)

Pollution knows no borders.

Interview 1991

Every molecule counts in atmospheric chemistry.

Lecture 1976

Humility before the unknown is a scientist's virtue.

Essay

Sustainability is the art of living wisely.

Book Excerpt 2011

The Nobel was for a team effort.

Speech 1995

Climate science must guide our leaders.

Testimony 2008

Discovery often comes from unexpected paths.

Interview 1983

Nature's wisdom surpasses our own.

Reflection

Act now, or pay later for environmental sins.

Article 2016

Chemistry is the poetry of elements.

Lecture 2001

International treaties save the planet.

Speech 1989

Persistence in research yields breakthroughs.

Personal Note

The ozone story is one of hope and action.

Book 2004

Life is a delicate chemical balance.

Interview 1993

Humor helps in the face of daunting science.

Anecdote

Global challenges unite us all.

Speech 2010

Every day in the lab is a new adventure.

Journal 1978

Wisdom comes from understanding our limits.

Reflection

The pursuit of knowledge is life's greatest joy.

Late Interview 2020

In science, questions are more important than answers.

Lecture 1986