Gianluigi Bacchetta, professor of Systematic Botany at the University of Cagliari, was recently awarded the Golden Oak Award for his results achieved in 30 years of research and conservation activities carried out throughout the Mediterranean.

The important award was presented in Cyprus during the works of the international congress on the conservation of Mediterranean flora and habitats (V Mediterranean Plant Conservation Week).

The Mediterranean Plant Conservation Award is given by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature), the CEPF (Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund) and the GENMEDA (Network of Mediterranean Plant Conservation Centres) network, which celebrates the outstanding contributions made to the protection, research and conservation of Mediterranean flora. The Golden Oak Award is a prestigious recognition given to scientists who have demonstrated a constant commitment and strong leadership in safeguarding the planet's botanical wealth.

"In recognition of his exceptional dedication and remarkable scientific contributions to the conservation of Mediterranean flora and habitats ," reads the award motivation, "His dedication and tireless commitment have left a lasting impact on the conservation of our natural heritage."

Scientific director of the Biodiversity Conservation Center and the Germplasm Bank of Sardinia , Gianluigi Bacchetta boasts a scientific production of absolute importance developed in 30 years of academic career : author of about 700 articles in international journals, he has collaborated with Italian and international publishers to draft 24 scientific books, also acting as a reviewer for national and international journals in the field of biodiversity conservation. He has played a leading role in the sector as editor of important scientific journals such as Plant Biosystems and Plant Sociology and the Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens. Lately, he is focusing his attention on supporting people in difficulty, mainly in Africa, the Middle East and South America, while continuing the ongoing projects in Brazil, Mozambique, Tanzania and Tunisia, and plans to develop new ones in the Balkans, Ecuador and Togo.