HNEE scientist among the winners of the Planet Earth Award

Prof Dr Denise Margaret S. Matias, Professor of Ecosystem-based Transformation Management in UNESCO Biosphere Reserves at Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development (HNEE), is the winner of the Planet Earth Award 2024. The scientist, originally from the Philippines, receives the award for her commitment to preserving honey bee diversity and for her collaboration with environmental groups, among other things.

The Planet Earth Award is presented by the Alliance of World Scientists (AWS), an international, independent body consisting of around 27,000 scientists from 180 nations based in the United States. The award recognises individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to life and the preservation of biodiversity on Earth.

The AWS honours Prof. Dr Denise Margaret S. Matias for her commitment as a "remarkable advocate of environmental policy". She has been an exemplary advocate for the preservation of honey bee diversity and carried out a project with the indigenous Tagbanua people to restore the habitat of giant honey bees by planting native species, according to the AWS award website.

The AWS also emphasised that in addition to her work in ecology, Prof. Matias has also published work on climate adaptation and slow-onset climate events. Through interviews, social media and presentations for various target groups, she has skilfully managed to always put public relations and science-based advocacy at the forefront.

Science Minister Dr Manja Schüle: "Research that inspires internationally: The Alliance of World Scientists has honoured Prof. Dr Denise Margaret S. Matias with the 'Planet Earth Award' for her services to biodiversity. For example, the HNEE scientist is committed to preserving the diversity and habitat of honey bees and works intensively with environmental groups. Once again it is clear that intensive research into a sustainable, socio-ecological future is being carried out in Brandenburg, particularly at HNE Eberswalde - and that is excellent! Congratulations on this fantastic award!"

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