Environmentalist Wins WWF Duke of Edinburgh Award

Freshwater ecologist and environmentalist Chen Yiyu the 2009 WWF charity Duke of Edinburgh Conservation medal. The award has been given in recognition to his life long devotion to conserving China’s freshwater resources.

Having published over 90 scientific papers and 10 books, Mr. Chen is a former Vice President of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and is the current President of the Chinese National Natural Science Foundation. Described by many one of China’s most important figures in the field of sustainable development and conservation Mr. Chen has championed many groundbreaking studies. these include his studies on the endangered Baiji dolphin and his research on Lake Hong’s ecosystems, which have led to considerable improvements in its water quality.

Director General of WWF International, James Leape, said -

Thanks to Mr. Chen’s leadership, China’s freshwater protection policies have improved dramatically, particularly in the areas of integrated watershed management and ecosystem management.The contributions Chen Yiyu continues to make to freshwater conservation in China are outstanding, and deserve to be celebrated.

The Medal is awarded annually by the wildlife charity for outstanding service to the environment, and the winner receives a gold medal, a Rolex watch, and a certificate signed by the Duke of Edinburgh and the Director General of WWF International.

Mr. Chen said -

The Duke of Edinburgh Award is a great honour for me. But this is also an honour for nature conservation in China, and for the many people who have made contributions. I will continue to work for the preservation of China’s environment, and contribute everything I have to ensuring we leave future generations a healthy, living planet.

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