The MIDORI Prize 2024 has recognized two outstanding individuals—Vera Voronova from Kazakhstan and Ysabel Agustina Calderón Carlos from Peru—for their remarkable contributions to conservation and sustainability. The announcement was made on October 2, 2024, in Montreal, Canada, highlighting their dedicated efforts in promoting environmental protection and biodiversity in their respective regions.
Who are the 2024 Awardees?
Vera Voronova, the Executive Director of the Association for the Conservation of Biodiversity in Kazakhstan, has been instrumental in restoring ecosystems and saving endangered species across Central Asia. Her work not only focuses on wildlife conservation but also emphasizes involving local rural communities in these efforts. By fostering a connection between people and nature, she has empowered communities to become active participants in preserving biodiversity.
Ysabel Agustina Calderón Carlos, the Founder and CEO of Sumak Kawsay in Peru, has made strides in safeguarding pollinators, which are critical to global food production. Additionally, she has been a strong advocate for improving the livelihoods of Indigenous women and youth. One of her flagship projects, the Bee Honey Route, promotes sustainable beekeeping and helps local communities generate income while supporting environmental sustainability.
The Award Ceremony
The prestigious award ceremony is scheduled to take place on October 29, 2024, in Cali, Colombia, during the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP 16) of the Convention on Biological Diversity. This event serves as a global forum where leaders and experts gather to discuss biodiversity and the future of environmental protection. By awarding individuals like Voronova and Calderón Carlos, the MIDORI Prize showcases the power of local efforts in shaping global conservation outcomes.
The Significance of the MIDORI Prize
Since its inception in 2010, the MIDORI Prize has honored 19 individuals from 17 different countries, all of whom have made substantial contributions to the field of biodiversity conservation. Past laureates include figures such as Dr. Paul Hebert, whose pioneering work in DNA barcoding has revolutionized species identification, and Melina Sakiyama, who has actively engaged young people in environmental protection.
The MIDORI Prize not only recognizes exceptional achievements but also serves as a platform to inspire future generations of environmental leaders. It aligns with global initiatives such as the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which aims to address urgent biodiversity challenges and set goals for nature conservation.
By honoring individuals like Voronova and Calderón Carlos, the MIDORI Prize 2024 reinforces the importance of local, community-driven conservation efforts and highlights their impact on a global scale. Their work stands as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that effective conservation is possible when people come together to protect the natural world.