Conservation Prize Applications Open

Professor Theo B. Pagel

(Press Release) ​Palm Beach, FL – Global Humane has opened applications for the prestigious 2024 Wolfgang Kiessling International Prize, dedicated to protecting and preserving the remarkable animals of the world. 
 
The annual Kiessling Prize brings global attention and support to individuals making extraordinary contributions to the field of wildlife conservation. The eponymous award was established in 2022 in honor of Wolfgang F. Kiessling, founder of Loro Parque and Loro Parque Foundation, and a globally recognized leader in the field.
 
At a time when Earth is in the midst of a sixth mass extinction—putting up to 1 million species at risk of extinction—wildlife conservation is more important than ever. 
 
“We are thrilled to start the search for the winner of the third annual Wolfgang Kiessling International Prize for Species Conservation,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of Global Humane and West Palm Beach resident. “This award honors inspiring conservationists around the world doing heroic work to protect our planet and its diverse animals.” 

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​“I am honored to partner with Global Humane to recognize incredible colleagues who share in our mission to save animal species before they disappear forever,” said Kiessling. “We look forward to once again recognizing a world-class conservationist making a meaningful difference in the fight for species survival.”
 
The Kiessling Prize selection committee is led by Dr. Robin Ganzert, Brad Andrews, Christoph Kiessling, Cybell Kiessling, and Dr. Javier Almunia. The committee will review applications, ultimately choosing one to take home the top prize along with a grant to help further their work to make significant contributions to the practical application, research, and theory of species protection.
 
Last year, the committee awarded Professor Theo B. Pagel, CEO of the Cologne Zoo in Germany, with the Kiessling Prize for his lifelong dedication to wildlife conservation. Pagel served as the former president of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums and currently co-chairs the international Reverse the Red initiative of the Species Survival Commission of the International Union for Conservation of Nature. 
 
In 2022, the inaugural Kiessling Prize was awarded to Dr. Jon Paul Rodríguez, Chair of the IUCN Species Survival Commission.
 
The application period for the 2024 Kiessling Prize will close on June 1, 2024. 
 
Applicants can learn more about the prize and submit their credentials here