Meg Lowman

Dr. Margaret Lowman, known as "Canopy Meg," is a biologist, ecologist, educator, author, and explorer recognized as a pioneer in forest canopy science. National Geographic referred to her as the "real-life Lorax," and The Wall Street Journal called her the "Einstein of the treetops." Lowman is known as the "mother of canopy research" and has spent more than 45 years designing hot-air balloons and walkways for treetop exploration in over 45 countries, focusing on forest ecology, insect pests, and ecosystem health. She is one of the world's foremost arbornauts, a term she uses to describe those who explore and study forest canopies, which she calls Earth's "eighth continent."

Lowman has conducted forest canopy research in 46 countries across seven continents and is the author or co-author of 13 books and more than 150 scientific publications, including foundational textbooks in canopy biology. Her memoirs, including "Life in the Treetops," "It's a Jungle Out There: More Tales from the Treetops," and "The Arbornaut," document her experiences as a female field biologist and her commitment to conservation and scientific exploration. "Life in the Treetops" received a cover review in The New York Times Sunday Book Review. "The Arbornaut" highlights her dedication to mentoring girls in science and promoting inclusivity in field research.

Lowman developed a toolkit for whole-forest exploration, utilizing ropes and harnesses, canopy walkways, hot-air balloons, cherry pickers, and construction cranes. She previously served as chief of science and sustainability at the California Academy of Sciences, overseeing scientific research, exploration programs, and sustainability initiatives. Lowman was selected as a Fulbright Senior Specialist Scholar to India and Ethiopia. Her work includes the creation of a UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve in Malaysia and a partnership with Coptic priests in Ethiopia to conserve the country's remaining church forests.

Lowman co-founded and serves as executive director of the TREE Foundation, which connects under-served children to nature and promotes tree research, education, and exploration. She launched Mission Green to build canopy walkways in the world's most biodiverse forests, partnering with oceanographer Sylvia Earle of Mission Blue to conserve rainforest biodiversity hot spots. Mission Green also trains local indigenous families, especially women, as environmental stewards, supporting sustainable ecotourism.

Lowman's contributions to conservation education have been recognized with awards such as the Kilby Laureate, Mendel Medal for Science and Spirit, Williams College Bicentennial Medal, and Garden Club of America Award for Achievements in Conservation Education. Additional honors include the Roy Chapman Andrews Distinguished Explorer Award, the Odum Award for Excellence in Education, and the Lowell Thomas Medal by the Explorers Club. Allegheny College awarded her an honorary degree for her work. Lowman regularly addresses corporate leaders, politicians, and decision-makers on the importance of healthy forests, making her a leading voice in conservation, biodiversity, and forest ecology.