Dr Bridgewater was the Secretary General of the Ramsar
Convention on Wetlands from 2003 until July this year, and before
that Director, Division of Ecological sciences, UNESCO, and
Secretary, Man and the Biosphere Programme between 1999 and 2003.
Peter’s interests include the links between biological and cultural
diversity, the management and conservation of coastal zones,
landscape ecology and in particular, its role in sustainable
development.
Born in the UK and taught in Australian universities, he was
Chief Executive of the Australian Nature Conservation Agency from
1990 to 1997, and then Chief Science Adviser, Environment
Australia, and Supervising Scientist, Alligator Rivers Region from
1997 to 1999. In 1997, he was awarded the degree of Doctor of
Resource Management, honoris causa, from the University of
New England. He has written over 200 publications on nature
conservation, environmental governance and biodiversity
issues.
His connection to UK nature conservation goes back to 1989,
when he was Chief Scientist of the Nature Conservancy
Council.
Deryck Steer, Managing Director of JNCC said: “We’re delighted
to welcome Peter back to the UK nature conservation scene.
His knowledge of global biodiversity and international processes
and agreements will be a huge asset to us and the Government.
Having worked with Peter nearly 20 years ago and periodically since
then, I know how valuable his strategic leadership will be to
JNCC”.
Dr Bridgewater said: “JNCC is in a unique position to play a
pivotal role in nature conservation on a global scale. I am keen to
use my knowledge and experience of international conservation to
help develop JNCC’s advisory role to Government. Across the UK we
rightly have a focus on the issue of climate change, but we have to
integrate biodiversity as a means to achieve wider socio-economic
goals. In all its forms biodiversity can help us adapt to and
mitigate against climate change. This is a key message that we can
promote both nationally and internationally. I am looking forward
to working with JNCC staff and other Committee members in
supporting the UK’s leading role in managing these critical
environmental issues.”
-ENDS-
Notes to editors:
1. The Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) is the
statutory adviser to Government on UK and international nature
conservation, on behalf of the Council for Nature Conservation and
the Countryside, the Countryside Council for Wales, Natural England
and Scottish Natural Heritage. Its work contributes to maintaining
and enriching biological diversity, conserving geological features
and sustaining natural systems.
2. Peter Bridgewater PhD Hon. DResMgmt h.c. FLS FIEEM CEnv
does not hold any other ministerial appointments, and has no
declared political activity.
3. For further information and images, please contact
JNCC’s Communications Team on 01733 866839, or email: