Dr . Edward O . Wilson - Champion for Conservation
Dr . Ridgely and Dr . Wilson
Photo by Rainforest Trust
TOP : MARIA TERESA VARGAS , EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR - FUNDACIÓN NATURA BOLIVIA
“ These two commitments made by these governments that collectively cover more than one-third of the world ’ s tropical forests are completely aligned with Rainforest Trust ’ s mission and key objectives ,” said Mark . “ This alignment creates more opportunities for Rainforest Trust in its pursuit of a world where half the Earth ’ s lands and waters are protected , providing refuge for wildlife and stabilizing the climate .”
“ The enthusiasm we received at the meeting was an affirmation that the conservation model we have followed for more than 30 years works ,” said Mark . “ Our work is relevant and impactful to our partners on the ground — those who steward the natural resources they protect . The opportunity to communicate this to these global leaders generated immediate results , enabling us to identify exciting new partners and opportunities to create and expand protected areas , furthering the shared missions of the Task Force and Rainforest Trust .”
With the passing of Dr . Edward O . Wilson on December 26 , 2021 , the natural world and Rainforest Trust lost a true champion . A Pulitzer Prize-winning biologist , author , teacher and mentor , Dr . Wilson continued to work throughout his retirement to promote the importance of protecting biodiversity through conservation .
Many species have been named to honor Dr . Wilson , but in 2016 , for the first time it was a bird . The Myrmoderus eowilsoni was discovered in the Amazonas Department by Josh Beck during a birding expedition . Beck decided to name the new antbird species in honor of Dr . Wilson after distinguished ornithologist and Rainforest Trust board member and President Emeritus Dr . Robert Ridgely .
A cherished Rainforest Trust board member since 2017 , Dr . Wilson will be greatly missed . We are thankful for his insight and contributions to our work .
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