The Tribune

AFTER receiving the prestigious Audubon Medal for environmental conservation in January, Lyford Cay resident Louis Bacon has now been named one of the world’s greenest billionaires by Forbes Magazine.

A statement released by the National Audubon Society noted that Forbes called Mr Bacon’s conservation efforts “a bold mission to save the American West” and added its congratulations.

President and CEO of the National Audubon Society, David Yarnold said: “Bacon holds a special place in today’s increasingly eco-conscious world, helping through his actions to sensitise others to the need to protect the environment.

“Bacon was awarded the Audubon Medal because of his conservation leadership. Throughout the years, Louis’ passion and determination have preserved important places and improved people’s lives.”

The Audubon Medal is the society’s highest honour. It was only the 52nd time the award was presented in the Society’s 108-year history, according to the statement.

Former recipients including Walt Disney, Rachel Carson, Ted Turner, Jimmy Carter and the Rockefeller family.

National Audubon Society chairman Holt Thrasher called Mr Bacon an “exceptional conservationist” and said he was being recognised by the society for his “significant and diverse efforts to preserve and protect key natural ecosystems.”

The statement added: “Bacon has advocated and supported conservation and protection of natural resources for two decades and his philanthropic efforts have attracted the attention of many leaders, in the United States and abroad, including the New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg.”

Mr Bacon joined New York City and the National Park Service last year as a philanthropic partner in the future restoration of 10,000 acres of parkland in Jamaica Bay, Queens.

“In 1992, Bacon created the Moore Charitable Foundation to protect critical land and water resources and support community programmes and sustainable environmental efforts directed at conservation. Since inception, the Foundation has provided significant funding to more than 200 local, national and international conservation organisations,” the statement said.