The contributions of these two eminent scientists have been vital to the shift in perspective that has taken place in conservation biology research, away from a species-centered approach to one based on ecosystems and the services they provide to humanity.
The jury also singled out their joint contribution to improving knowledge and awareness regarding loss of biodiversity due to habitat destruction and the action of invasive species, along with their invaluable work in the search for strategies to halt this loss.
Harold Mooney is considered the leading voice in the biology of global change. His work has been instrumental in incorporating biology into the study of global environmental issues, including climate change, biodiversity loss and the action of invasive species. From his involvement in the International Biological Program in 1970 to his position as co-chair of the scientific panel of the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment a program bringing together 1,300 scientists from 95 countries to appraise the current state of planetary ecosystems Mooney has championed the idea that biodiversity is a key piece in ecosystem function.
Peter Raven is an eminent plant taxonomist and evolutionary biologist. Director of the Missouri Botanic Garden, one of the worlds leading centers for botany research and training, Professor Raven is the author of key contributions in the biological sciences field; among them the co-evolution concept which he formulated on the basis of his studies into butterflies and the plants they feed on.
Harold Mooney is currently the president of Diversitas while Peter Raven serves on its Advisory Board. Diversitas is an international program set up by intergovernmental orga
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| Contact: Javier Fernandez comunicacion@fbbva.es Fundacin BBVA Source:Eurekalert |