Thomas Lovejoy, a scientist known for his pioneering work in
conservation biology, has been appointed chairman of the National
Geographic Conservation Trust, a new grant-making body established to
support conservation activities around the world.
Grants will be
awarded for projects that contribute significantly to the preservation
and sustainable use of the Earth's biological and cultural resources.
Among his lengthy record of achievements, Lovejoy played a key role in raising international awareness about the growing loss of tropical forests and their environmental importance, in part because of the exceptionally wide range of plant and animal species they harbor.
He is credited with coining the term "biological diversity." Today, with species disappearing at a rate that many scientists believe is unprecedented, "biodiversity" preservation has become a central focus of attention among conservationists and millions of other concerned people around the world.
Lovejoy is currently the chief adviser to the World Bank for biodiversity issues and the Bank's leading specialist on environmental issues in Latin America and the Caribbean. He is also a senior adviser to the president of the United Nations Foundation.
He called the Society's establishment of the Conservation Trust "an exciting development that will encourage important and innovative conservation efforts around the world and promote stewardship of our planet's vital resources through research and education."
The new Trust provides grants to projects involving conservation science, education, and action. Several grants have already been given, and up to U.S. $1 million will be awarded annually.
