STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN — Professor John Anthony Allan (photo), from King’s College, London, and the School of Oriental and African Studies, has been named the 2008 Stockholm Water Prize Laureate, according to a March 19 Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI) press release.

According to Allan’s concepts, human consumption of water extends beyond drinking it and using it for bathing. In 1993, Allan demonstrated this by introducing the “virtual water” concept, which measures how water is embedded in the production and trade of food and consumer products. For example, behind that morning cup of coffee are 140 liters of water (37 gallons) used to grow, produce, package and ship the beans — roughly the same amount of water used daily by an average person in England for drinking and household needs, according to the press release.

According to the press release, Allan’s “keen perceptions and scientific analysis have inspired new thinking on the spectrum of water challenges, and is described by many as one of the most influential thinkers in the global water sector today.”

SIWI, an independent international policy institute based in Stockholm and focused on the global water crisis, administers the Stockholm Water Prize for the Stockholm Water Foundation, which promotes research and development in the world’s water environment. The Stockholm Water Prize will be presented during World Water Week in Stockholm, which is organized by SIWI and set for August 17-23.

The Stockholm Water Prize Laureate receives $150,000 and a crystal sculpture.

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