Macerl and other members of Eko krog have worked for years to achieve the closing of the Lafarge cement factory in Trbovlje, whose emissions were detrimental to he health of the people as well as the environment. Upon his return from the USA, he received a warm welcome at the Ljubljana airport from his fellow villagers and members of Eko krog, who greeted him with cheers, a loud applause and a sign that said "Uroš, you are our pride".

According to Macerl, the award is not just a recognition of his effort but of the entire Eko krog, other environmental organisations as well as the local community and the municipality of Zagorje, which have all endeavoured for more than ten years to ensure a healthy life environment. "This is a recognition for much effort and work by a big group of people who have decided to protect the environment and their children," emphasized Macerl.

"The capital is ruthless," warns Macerl, "the only thing that counts there is profit. There is no mercy for the lives of people, children nor when destroying national parks."

Jolanda Lebar, Radio Slovenija; translated by K. Z.