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A Jersey conservationist has been awarded a medal from the Royal Geographical Society for his work protecting tropical rainforests and combating climate change – with past recipients including Sir David Attenborough and Dame Fiona Reynolds.
Andrew Mitchell, a Jersey-based conservationist, is this year's recipient of the Founder's Medal which aims to recognise extraordinary achievement in geographical research, fieldwork and public engagement.
Mr Mitchell is the founder of the Global Canopy Programme, a data-driven not for profit that targets the market forces destroying nature, and eco-consultancy Equilibrium Futures, which works with governments and corporations to promote sustainable economic growth.
The Founder's Medal is one of two 'Royal Medals' awarded by the Royal Geographical Society which has been presented since the Society's founding in the 1830s, and has been approved by His Majesty the King.
Past recipients include Sir David Attenborough, Dame Fiona Reynolds and Lindsey Hilsum.
Pictured: The Royal Geographical Society.
Nigel Clifford, President of the Royal Geographical Society, said that Mr Mitchell's "tireless work to protect the tropical rainforests of the world means he wholly deserves this honour."
He added: "For over 40 years, Andrew has embraced every opportunity to achieve his objective as he moved from the world of scientific research into policy formation, and subsequently tackling the flows of money powering the deforestation economy.”
Mr Mitchell said: “I am delighted to accept this honour and dedicate it to every leaf, and every branch, and every creature that calls towering trees their home.
"In the face of deforestation and changing climate, our commitment to preserve these living giants and their diverse ecosystems has become ever more critical.
"I thank the Royal Geographical Society for catalysing leadership in research and debate on the biggest environmental issues of our time. This award will catalyse me to continue doing the same.”
Pictured top: Andrew Mitchell, recipient of the 2023 Founder's Medal from the Royal Geographical Society.
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