21 Sep WBArt.9 Award – 2026 Edition
After two successful editions that attracted strong interest and participation, the “WBArt.9 – For Biodiversity” Award returns in 2026 for its third edition, confirming its importance as a key event for professionals involved in biodiversity conservation and science communication.
The award
On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of its foundation, the World Biodiversity Association created the “WBArt.9 – For Biodiversity” Award to acknowledge and celebrate citizens who have made a significant contribution to the protection and conservation of biodiversity.
The aim of the award
Protecting biodiversity depends on the commitment of countless individuals. Some of them deserve special recognition for the dedication they show, whether through their professional work, volunteer activities, involvement in organizations and institutions, or as private citizens.
For the 2026 edition, the award will be presented in the Dissemination category. Starting from future editions, the three award categories will rotate, ensuring that all areas covered by the Award receive recognition over time.
The assignment
The Award consists of an original work of symbolic and artistic value and the lifetime recognition of “honorary member” of WBA. Upon request, each winner will receive one copy of all available WBA publications, including both current and future releases. Each year, the award will be presented to individuals who have distinguished themselves through concrete actions aimed at the study, dissemination, and protection of biodiversity.
The WBArt.9 – For Biodiversity Award is presented in three categories:
- AREA A – SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH
- AREA B – DISSEMINATION
- AREA C – CONCRETE EXPERIENCES OF PROTECTION
Area B – Dissemination
This category includes individuals who have made use of today’s communication tools to share with the wider public the extraordinary diversity of life on Earth and the urgent need to preserve it—especially for future generations. Also subject to evaluation are educational and outreach activities related to the ongoing environmental crisis and the imperative to pursue environmental, social, and economic sustainability at both local and global levels.
During the award ceremony, the reasons for the selection of the recipient will be presented, and the award winner will be invited to give a talk on the topic of biodiversity.
The jury
The jury is composed of the current members of the WBA Directing Council and the Honorary Committee (individuals who play a significant supportive role in WBA’s activities and are appointed by the Council).
The value of biodiversity
The concept of biodiversity was inserted into the Constitution of the Italian Republic on 8 February 2022, modifying articles 9 (one of the fundamental principles) and 41, which today read as follows:
Article 41: “Private economic initiative is free. It cannot take place in conflict with social utility or in a way that causes damage to safety, freedom, human dignity, health, the environment. The law determines the appropriate programs and controls so that public and private economic activity can be directed and coordinated for social and environmental objectives”.
Protecting biodiversity is therefore a constitutional dictate, which every citizen and every institution must have as a fundamental principle of their daily actions.
WBArt.9 is not only a recognition, but also an opportunity to build networks, share best practices, and give visibility to exemplary initiatives.
The WBArt.9 Award Ceremony will conclude with a final toast, a chance to celebrate together our shared commitment to protecting biodiversity.
📅 Thursday, 15 October
🕔 5 :00 PM
📍Museo di Storia Naturale di Verona
For further information, please contact the WBA Secretariat at segreteria@biodiversityassociation.org.
