In a statement, the Prince of Asturias prize organizers said Gore is "one of the most influential leaders in the world in the fight against climate change."

"He has focused his public activity on promoting an awareness of humanity's responsibility for global warming and the urgent need to adopt measures that will mitigate its consequences," the statement added.

The Prince of Asturias Foundation gives out eight awards annually for outstanding contributions to areas ranging from the arts and science to sports and international cooperation.

The prizes are named for Prince Felipe, heir to the Spanish throne and each carry a cash prize of 50,000 euros (67,500 US dollars) and a sculpture by Catalan artist Joan Miro.

They are presented each fall in Oviedo, the capital of the northern region of Asturias.