Half-Earth Resolution Honors E.O. Wilson’s Legacy

Last week, U.S. Representative Don Beyer (D-VA) introduced a resolution supporting Half-Earth, a concept introduced by the late Dr. E.O. Wilson that calls for protecting half the Earth’s land and sea in order to ensure the long-term health of our planet.

Wildlands Network played an instrumental role in this legislation. As part of our campaign for the Wildlife Corridors Conservation Act, we introduced Dr. Wilson to the Congressman and brought them together for several events. Since Dr. Wilson’s passing in 2021, we’ve continued to work with congressional staff to honor his work to protect biodiversity and Half-Earth.

In this photo from 2017, Wildlands Network U.S. Federal Policy Director Susan Holmes (right) introduces Representative Don Beyer (D-VA) (center) to the late Dr. E.O. Wilson. Wilson then presented the Congressman with a signed copy of his book, Half-Earth. Wildlands Network had brought Dr. Wilson to the U.S. Capitol for an event in support of the Wildlife Corridors Conservation Act and Half-Earth.

"Thanks to Congressman Beyer for his vision and leadership in introducing the resolution to conserve Half-Earth,” said Wildlands Network U.S. Federal Policy Director Susan Holmes. “This resolution will inspire Congress and policymakers around the world to take action to stem the biodiversity crisis. With an average of 68% of mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and fish lost between 1970 and 2016, we must act quickly to protect Half-Earth and continue the important work led by E.O. Wilson.”

Watch the recording of Wildlands Network’s 2019 congressional briefing on the Wildlife Corridors Conservation Act, including recorded opening remarks from E.O. Wilson.