LIKE MINDS
WILDLIFE. THE NORTH. PARKS. These are the top three interests of our readers. I often think there’s a nexus where they intersect — some combination of a passion for our natural world, the environment and the systems that govern and protect both.
Coincidentally, Canadian Geographic has long been supported by a commercial enterprise that’s quietly but significantly backing research and initiatives aimed at fostering the health and well-being of that very same intersection: Rolex.
The renowned luxury watchmaker — which since its very beginnings more than 100 years ago has relied on explorers to field-test its wares — has, full disclosure, been one of our most loyal advertisers, helping us continue to bring you this publication. Beyond that, it has also been backing emerging scientists and innovators who want to make the world a better place. Its Rolex Awards for Enterprise (that’s Canadian Miranda Wang, above, a 2019 Laureate, who received 200,000 Swiss francs to further her work in turning previously unrecyclable plastic into reusable chemicals), and its newer Perpetual Planet initiative, support and raise awareness of individuals around the globe who are working to protect the ecosystems we depend on.
Given the similarity between our mission and Rolex’s philanthropic goals, it seemed only natural to collaborate by sharing more stories about the people making a real difference for the planet. In this issue, see the Big Picture department with Brazilian conservationist João Campos-silva (page 10), for instance. And watch for similar pieces in upcoming issues. It’s a joint pursuit we’re proud to highlight.