"It's very inspiring to see women from all of these countries working on similar issues and being similarly dedicated to their projects," said Walker, an attorney for Western Resource Advocates.

An offshoot of the French botanical beauty company, the foundation established the prize "to encourage women who improve the environment and contribute to the plant world by leading or working on projects that benefit mankind and nature."

Walker traveled to Paris to receive the $8,000 first prize and attend an awards ceremony for recipients from Europe and North America.

Most recently, Walker argued before the Utah Supreme Court on behalf of the Utah Chapter of the Sierra Club, which wants to appeal air-quality permits the state has granted for two coal-fired power plants. She also has presented legal arguments for Friends of the Great Salt Lake, Red Rock Forests, the Southern Utah Wilderness Association and Trout Unlimited against the Skull Valley nuclear waste storage site.

The foundation praised Walker for working to safeguard southern Utah's native ecosystems from invasive plants and damaging activities, as well as using the public participation process to help conserve and enhance habitat.

Yves Rocher employs 14,800 and uses 150 active plant ingredients in its products.

- Judy Fahys