“The 21st century is becoming the era of synthesis, and that’s where ecology and biodiversity conservation fit.”

On the occasion of receiving the 3rd BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Award in Climate Change and Environmental Sciences, naturalist Edward O. Wilson explains how the study of ants and island biogeography led him to coin the term “biodiversity” and to advocate for its urgent conservation. In this interview, he reflects on the integration of knowledge—sciences, humanities, and the arts—and shows why this synthesis is key to tackling the major environmental challenges of the 21st century.

The BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Award in the Ecology and Conservation Biology category goes in this third edition to naturalist Edward O. Wilson, one of the most influential thinkers of our time, an exceptional biologist and a world-class natural historian. Wilson coined and popularized the term ‘biodiversity’, which is the label for global conservation issues and efforts across the globe, and has contributed much to making our society aware of its value.