Earthwatch will emphasize the importance of public engagement in biodiversity conservation at Green Week Conference 2006
Oxford. 30 May 2006. The annual celebration of European Green Week, organised by the European Commission, will take place from May 29th to June 2nd and carries the message that we must strive to halt biodiversity loss and improve our management of natural resources.
Earthwatch will be exhibiting and speaking at the Green Week conference in Brussels to communicate the message that in order to preserve biodiversity we must encourage wider society to truly value it.
"The European Commission has identified the four E's in biodiversity conservation, ethics, emotions, environment and economics," explains Kay O'Regan, Earthwatch Environmental Partnerships Manager. "Earthwatch feel that in addition, engaging the public in the value of biodiversity and inspiring individuals is critical if we are going to make positive change. We therefore propose that engagement become the fifth E of Green Week 2006."
Since 1971 Earthwatch has provided a model for bridging the gap between the general public and science in order to promote an increased commitment to the conservation cause and to provide a new funding model for scientific research. In this time, more than 80,000 people have worked with 1000 Earthwatch scientists all around the globe, contributing over 10 million hours of research. All of these people have gained a greater understanding of biodiversity through this hands-on, life changing experience.
For more information, images and interviews contact Zoe Gamble, Earthwatch Senior Press Officer on 01865 318852 or zgamble@earthwatch.org.uk.
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