Robbie Bonds: 2021 Murie Spirit of Conservation Rising Leader

At 9 years old, Robbie heard about the prospect of closing or limiting access to our national parks, and wanted to be sure his and other kids' concerns were heard. He started speaking out, and subsequently founded the organization Kids Speak for Parks, which has been a fantastic vehicle for his message since 2017.    Robbie Bond's work to speak out on behalf of national parks caught the eye of Rose Marcario, former CEO of Patagonia. Rose was recently nominated as the recipient of the 2021 Murie Spirit of Conservation Awards, an annual tradition at Teton Science Schools in Jackson, WY. The award is named for early conservation activist Mardy Murie, whose efforts contributed to the signing of the Wilderness Act of 1964. Rose has been a staunch advocate for the business sector to be a solution, rather than a problem, for our worlds' conservation needs. The awardee has the honor of naming a rising leader in the conservation movement, and Rose named Robbie as the 2021 Murie Spirit of Conservation Rising Leader.   The Murie Spirit of Conservation Rising Leader Award is among a growing list of accolades and honors the young advocate holds, making him an inspiration to young people of all ages to take meaningful action to address the worsening climate change crisis. He's such an inspiration he's even been part of the Disney+ show Marvel’s Hero Project, through which inspiring kids are highlighted as heroes who try to make change in their communities and empower other children.   Bond will receive his award in a virtual event on September 9 in Grand Teton National Park. Marcario will also be honored at the same event, with the school's Spirit of Conservation Award.   Follow Robbie on Instagram or FaceBook to keep up with his incredible journey.    Thank you for your time, Robbie!