Many people are engaged daily, within organizations and institutions, in the conservation and protection of biodiversity, and they deserve explicit recognition for their commitment, both professional and voluntary.
On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of its founding, the World Biodiversity Association (WBA) established the “WBArt. 9 – For Biodiversity” Award to recognize citizens committed to protecting our natural heritage.
On September 21, 2024, at Certosa 1515 in Avigliana (Turin), the WBArt. 9 Award – 2024 Edition was presented to three outstanding individuals committed to the protection and conservation of biodiversity.
The awards ceremony took place at the end of the conference “WBArt. 9: scientific research, dissemination and concrete actions for Biodiversity”: a meeting focused on the themes of scientific research, biodiversity dissemination and concrete protection experiences, with the participation of nationally and internationally renowned speakers who shared their direct experience and presented specific case studies on the topics of the sessions.
For the Scientific Research area, the award went to Marco Alberto Bologna – Full Professor of Zoology at Roma Tre University.
The WBArt.9 award jury deemed his work an excellent example and a valuable testament to the research community’s commitment to protecting the environment, biodiversity, and ecosystems through the development of culture and scientific research. His brilliant academic career has always been accompanied by intense field research activities: from the Mediterranean to the Near East, from the desert areas of Africa, North America and Australia, to his beloved Ligurian Alps. He has disseminated his findings in over 450 scientific publications, including 225 international ones, as well as in numerous books and monographs.
For the Dissemination area, the award went to Cecilia di Lieto – Host of the radio program “Considera l’Armadillo” on Radio Popolare.
The WBArt.9 award jury recognized her communication style a valuable contribution to collective dissemination, instrumental in stimulating attention to the issue of environmental protection, biodiversity, and ecosystems. Through her words, she has created a direct and engaging dialogue with diverse audiences, sharing stories and actions that inspire participation in favor of the environment. With this talent, she created the radio program “Considera l’armadillo”, which daily explores topics related to environmental culture and the relationship between humans, animals, and nature.
For the Concrete experiences of protection area, the award went to Franca Zanichelli – President of the Parmense Society of Natural Sciences.
The WBArt.9 Award jury considered her working methods to be an ideal expression of operational excellence, instrumental in advancing a culture dedicated to the protection of the environment, biodiversity, and ecosystems, and their profound value as part of the Nation’s landscape. With fifty years of dedication to environmental restoration and nature conservation, she has held numerous public roles related to the management of parks and protected areas, promoting best practices to combat hydrogeological instability and establishing monitoring stations. She has directed museum projects, supported young researchers, and spearheaded concrete environmental restoration efforts.
“The awards were presented by Paolo Fontana, President of the WBA.
Download the WBArt.9 Award Brochure here.
