A new BGCI report links human well being to conservation and sees botanical gardens as uniquely placed to use plant diversity to promote human well being.
The possibilities for collections-based research at botanical gardens and arboreta range from the modest to the major. The Arnold Arboretum is about to embark on a major investment in research into plant evolutionary history and functional biology.
What defines a world class plant collection? After a three-year study of 12 public gardens in seven countries, Gates identifies 12 characteristics that equal exemplary.
While the reasons differ, the answer to that question is a definitive yes from both old and new public garden professionals. Together they present a compelling case for the continued relevance of public gardens.
From Deep Roots Grows a New and Stronger Organization
When AABGA became APGA, the organization also increased member benefits, committed resources to expand the use of technology to provide member services, and strengthened its advocacy of issues important to members.
With two-thirds of all species likely to become extinct by the end of this century, the one-third of the world's plant species already in cultivation in botanical gardens are critically important for research and conservation.
Public gardens are exceptionally good at appealing to diverse audiences, but as Benveniste asks shouldn't we be using our influence to help drive the public's response to policy decisions affecting the environment and sustainability?