Renowned Indian ecologist Madhav Gadgil, aged 82, has been awarded the 2024 Champions of the Earth Lifetime Achievement Award by the United Nations, recognizing his exceptional contributions to environmental conservation over six decades.
The Champions of the Earth award, presented by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), is the organization’s most prestigious acknowledgment of individuals and groups developing innovative and sustainable solutions to address global environmental challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Recipients of this award are celebrated for their efforts in fostering economic transformation, promoting innovation, advancing policy initiatives, combating environmental injustice, and safeguarding natural resources.
Gadgil’s illustrious career has focused on advocating for the protection of India’s ecosystems while championing the rights of marginalized communities. His groundbreaking 2011 report on the Western Ghats highlighted the urgent need to preserve ecologically sensitive areas amid rising industrial pressures. This report, along with his extensive research, has significantly influenced policies such as the Biological Diversity Act and the Forest Rights Act, empowering local communities to manage and protect natural resources.
As a pioneer of community-led conservation, Gadgil was instrumental in establishing India’s first biosphere reserve, the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, in 1986. His efforts have been pivotal in conserving biodiversity in regions facing severe threats from deforestation and habitat destruction. Additionally, his mentorship of rural youth in ecosystem preservation has created a lasting impact.
Despite the ongoing challenges of climate change, Gadgil remains hopeful about the future. He emphasizes the importance of inclusive development, stating, “Communities are getting organized, and we must work with them.” His lifelong dedication to environmental advocacy continues to inspire future generations of conservation leaders in India and across the globe.
