It all started when…

The International Biodiversity Network is an egalitarian global fellowship of dedicated conservation scientists, practitioners, and advocates who have a key voice in setting the international agenda for environmental stewardship and whose programs serve as models for excellence in conservation practice.

We address growing urban and rural key issues in creating healthy social, ecological, and economic systems by sharing best practices and the collective knowledge and expertise of our unparalleled international team of biodiversity professionals.

History

An international group of scientists gathered in India in January 2004 to establish The Wildlife Trust Alliance (WTA), an agreement among conservation scientists and small-scale, local conservation organizations designed to foster innovative and long-lasting local conservation efforts. We aimed to create a mutual commitment to practical, multidisciplinary species programs at conservation sites worldwide. 

This alliance of wildlife biologists and educators went on to create joint ventures in research, policy design, and implementation, as well as in fundraising and mentoring. Careers of these young scientists soared:  for example:

  • Rodrigo Medellin became president of the International Society for Conservation Biology and the subject of a documentary by David Attenborough; 

  • Jon Paul Rodriguez became chair of the Species Survival Commission of the World Conservation Union; 

  • Claudio and Suzana Padua were named Heroes of the Planet by Time Magazine.  

  • Drs. Alonso Aguirre and R. Sukumar co-edited a volume through Oxford University Press entitled Tropical Conservation: Perspectives on Local and Global Priorities.

  • All former members have become conservation leaders in their countries’ top universities, research institutes, and prestigious NGOs.

Today, the former WTA network continues to grow as The International Biodiversity Network (IBN), composed by senior conservation inspired to leave a legacy and prepare the next generation of conservationists worldwide. IBN will continue developing by adding new Professional Members and inviting those who want to participate in the urgent imperative of biodiversity conservation to become Supporting Members.