The passing of Tom Lovejoy provides us with the opportunity to celebrate the life of a giant in the field of conservation. Tom had an immeasurable impact on global biodiversity conservation, particularly in the Amazon basin. He was an academic standard-setter who conducted groundbreaking research and coined the term “biodiversity.” His influence was magnified greatly by his ability to build relationships of trust with leaders at the highest level in government and around the world. He was a prophetic voice on the dangers to our planet posed by the accelerating extinction of species. Tom was an invaluable partner to the Paulson Institute, a friend, and a role model to many who are profoundly grateful for his life and are inspired to carry on his work to save our planet.
On April 5, 2022, The National Geographic Society awarded Dr. Lovejoy the 2022 Hubbard Medal in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to conservation biology and, specifically, to the understanding and protection of the Amazon rainforest.