Mammal Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences is proud to announce that Dr. habil. Katarzyna Nowak has been awarded the prestigious Planet Earth Award 2026, presented by the Alliance of World Scientists (AWS)!. The Planet Earth Award is an international distinction recognizing individuals who make exceptional contributions to protecting life on Earth by combining scientific research with public engagement, collaboration with policymakers, and active science communication.
https://scientistswarning.forestry.oregonstate.edu/AWS_award#award-information
William J. Ripple, Director of the Alliance of World Scientists, wrote: “Dr. Katarzyna Nowak exemplifies global conservation leadership grounded in science and inclusion. Her work spans continents and connects ecological protection with policy, advocacy, and human rights. By addressing emerging challenges such as the socio-ecological impacts of border militarization, she expands the boundaries of conservation science and ensures that environmental stewardship remains both evidence-based and socially conscious.”
Dr. Katarzyna Nowak’s research focuses on biodiversity conservation, the ecology of large mammals, and the socio-ecological dimensions of nature protection. Her work bridges science, environmental policy, and public engagement, representing a modern, globally oriented approach to conservation.
Dr. Nowak joins a distinguished group of world-renowned scientific leaders, including James Hansen – an American climate scientist and pioneer of global warming research; Mike Berners-Lee – a British researcher specializing in carbon footprints and decarbonization strategies; Dominick DellaSala – an ecologist and conservation biologist focused on the protection of natural forests; Susan M. Natali – an Arctic climate scientist studying the impacts of permafrost thaw; Katherine Richardson – an oceanographer and co-developer of the planetary boundaries framework; and Kimberly Nicholas – a climate and sustainability researcher specializing in effective emissions reduction strategies. Dr. Nowak’s presence among these eminent scholars highlights the international recognition of her scientific achievements and societal impact in shaping global environmental and wildlife policy.
This remarkable honor not only acknowledges Dr. Katarzyna Nowak’s outstanding scientific contributions but also marks an important milestone for Polish science — for the first time, the Planet Earth Award has been presented to a researcher from Poland.
Congratulations!
Photo by: Atsushi Sugimoto