© WWF-Pakistan

The WWF-Pakistan Conservation Awards aim to recognise, honour, and celebrate individuals who have made significant contributions to nature conservation efforts across Pakistan. These awards highlight outstanding achievements in environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, scientific research, and advocacy for environmental law, particularly in specialised areas of conservation work.

Muhammad Idrees Nauman (Syed Asad Ali Conservation Award)

The Syed Asad Ali Conservation Award celebrates the extraordinary legacy of Syed Asad Ali, whose tireless efforts safeguarded Pakistan’s wildlife and natural heritage. This prestigious award recognises individuals who exemplify his dedication to biodiversity conservation. This year, the award was presented to Muhammad Idrees Nauman of the Wildlife and Fisheries Department, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, for his remarkable courage and skill in rescuing a female common leopard stranded 300 feet high in a tree.

Rizwana Aziz (T.J. Roberts Conservation Award)

The T.J. Roberts Conservation Award pays tribute to the enduring legacy of the late T.J. Roberts, a visionary conservationist whose work inspired a future of environmental preservation and species protection. This year, the award was presented to Rizwana Aziz from Punjab Wildlife and Parks Department for her groundbreaking initiatives to combat illegal poaching and wildlife trade, particularly pangolins and other vulnerable species. Her efforts have strengthened enforcement measures and raised awareness, advancing wildlife conservation in Punjab.

Sana Raja (George Schaller Conservation Award)

Named after the esteemed conservationist, the George Schaller Conservation Award honours remarkable contributions to wildlife preservation, scientific research, and habitat conservation. This year, Sana Raja of the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board was recognized for her exceptional efforts in rescuing and rehabilitating endangered species, including common leopards. Her collaboration with WWF-Pakistan and international experts has established her as a prominent advocate for wildlife conservation and rehabilitation in Pakistan.

Dr Farooq Ahmad (Herbion Nature Conservation Award)

Established by Herbion Naturals, the Herbion Nature Conservation Award recognizes outstanding efforts to preserve floral diversity, particularly medicinal plants essential for human health and environmental sustainability. This year, Dr. Farooq Ahmad of the Punjab Agriculture Department was honored for his remarkable contributions to wetland restoration and biodiversity conservation in Pakistan's Salt Range region. His work has safeguarded over 60,000 acres of protected areas in Soon Valley while promoting eco-tourism and environmental education in the region.

Raja Waseem Ahmed (Al-Mizan Award)

Created in collaboration with Ahmer Bilal Sufi, President of the Research Society of International Law, the Al-Mizan Award for Environmental Justice honours exceptional achievements in environmental legal advocacy, emphasizing the vital role of legal frameworks in protecting the environment. This year, Raja Waseem Ahmed, an environmental activist, was recognized for his legal efforts to combat industrial threats in the Kahoon Valley, Chakwal. His work has led to landmark victories, including the protection of local groundwater and biodiversity.