Through its prestigious awards, IUCN recognises the dedication, innovation and leadership of those advancing the cause of conservation. This year, the accolades went to several outstanding figures whose contributions span policy, science and advocacy.
John C. Phillips Memorial Medal
The John C. Phillips Memorial Medal celebrates exceptional service in international conservation. Established in memory of Dr John C. Phillips, a pioneer in medicine, zoology, taxonomy and genetics. The medal has been awarded at every IUCN Congress since 1963.
This year, the medal was presented to Hon Marina Silva, the current Minister of Environment and Climate Change in Brazil. Hon Silva is also the founder and former spokeswoman of the Sustainability Network (REDE), and her work continues to inspire global environmental policy.
"This honour stands, not as an individual acknowledgment but as a recognition of the collective effort of the Brazilian people and of the many people, communities and institutions who fight tirelessly for the defence of life, forests and climate", said Minister Silva in her award reception video.
Harold Jefferson Coolidge Memorial Medal
The Harold Jefferson Coolidge Memorial Medal recognises conservation professionals who have made outstanding contributions to the protection of nature and natural resources. Named after Harold Jefferson Coolidge, a co-founder of IUCN and an influential advocate for conservation who championed women in science, the award celebrates lifelong dedication to safeguarding the planet.
This year’s recipient is Dr Simon Stuart, Chief Scientific Advisor at Synchronicity Earth, Senior Advisor to A Rocha International, and former Chair of the IUCN Species Survival Commission. Dr Stuart’s work has influenced countless conservation projects and professionals worldwide. Dr Simon beamed with pride as he accepted his award and dedicated it to people he has collaborated with over the years
“I am deeply grateful to receive this award, which really belongs to all the brilliant people I’ve worked alongside. Conservation is a collaborative effort, and the true heroes are usually unseen, so I'm proud to accept it on their behalf. I have always tried to support and empower the people I’ve met, and one of the joys of my work has been watching them run with it. Seeing people I knew early in their careers now leading change around the world is the greatest reward of all,” said Dr Stuart.
Honorary Membership of IUCN
The Honorary Membership of IUCN is awarded to individuals who have rendered exceptional service to nature conservation and the goals of IUCN. It recognises those whose efforts have had lasting impact, from leading international research to shaping policy and conservation strategy.
The 2025 honourees are:
- Dr Sylvia A. Earle, a world-renowned oceanographer, explorer and advocate for ocean conservation. She is the founder of Mission Blue, National Geographic Explorer at Large, and a founding IUCN Patron of Nature.
“Given the status as an Honorary Member of IUCN is a high honour that deeply enhances my resolve to celebrate and support the organisation that beyond all others, consistently, persistently and effectively, represents the past, present and especially the future of Earth's millions of species, including humankind. Knowledge is our superpower.” said Dr Earle.
- Mr Jeffrey McNeely, whose conservation career began at the Los Angeles Zoo and spanned decades at IUCN in Switzerland, shaping global conservation strategies.
“I have spent 50 years working to conserve nature and natural resources. My years working with the IUCN family were the most productive,” said Mr Jeffrey.
- Dr John Robinson, former Vice President of the IUCN Council and a senior leader at the Wildlife Conservation Society, where he oversaw conservation initiatives across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
"I’m humbled to receive this award. I accept this award as a standard bearer for all of us within the IUCN family. The opportunity to work in conservation is not something I take likely, I thank you for this honor, as we look into the future", said Dr John as he accepted the award.
I’m humbled to receive this award. This award is really about IUCN and what it does in its daily business. The opportunity to work in conservation is not something I take likely.
These awards highlight not only individual achievement but also the collective effort required to protect our planet. From policymakers to scientists and environmental advocates, the work recognised by IUCN serves as a reminder that the fight for nature requires vision, dedication and unwavering commitment.
As the Congress continues, these honourees inspire the next generation of conservation leaders to dream bigger, act bolder, and protect the Earth for generations to come.