The American Institute of Biological Sciences is honored to receive a Special Service Award for advocacy on behalf of scientific collections from the Society for the Preservation of Natural History Collections (SPNHC). The Award was presented on May 31, 2019, in conjunction with the SPNHC annual meeting in Chicago, Illinois. Sharing the recognition with AIBS is the Natural Science Collections Alliance (NSC Alliance).
“On behalf of everyone affiliated with AIBS, I thank SPNHC for this recognition. Many current and former staff members have worked hard to advance strong public policy that promotes new investments in science and ensures the scientific process remains as free from political interference as possible. This award is a wonderful and appreciated recognition of their dedication and diligence,” said AIBS Executive Director Dr. Robert Gropp.
Biological diversity is critical to human health and well-being. The plants, animals, and microbes with which we share the Earth offer aesthetic benefits, such as the enjoyment that comes from listening to a bird’s song or smelling a flower, and contain information, such as genes, that cannot be replaced when a species is lost to extinction.
“Natural science collections, such as natural history museums and botanic gardens, enable innovative research that helps us understand the rules that govern life on Earth as well as provide the insights necessary to protect biological diversity, improve agricultural production and food security, and protect us from diseases and pests,” said Gropp. These institutions, located in communities across the country, also provide kids with exciting and unique educational opportunities.