Human health depends on biodiversity, says Chris Packham, who will judge DAUK’s essay writing competition for medical students.
The Doctors’ Association UK (DAUK) is encouraging medical students to submit an essay with a maximum of 1000 words on the question: Why does biodiversity matter to healthcare and what should we do about it?”
The shortlisted finalists will be judged by Mr Packham, the broadcaster, environmental activist and animal welfare campaigner.
The first prize is £300, with two £100 prizes for the two runners-up.
The top three essays will also be considered for publication in the BMJ Leader blog.
Mr Packham, whose recent TV credits include Earth for the BBC, and Is it Time to Break the Law for Channel 4, said he was proud to be able to support medical students
He said: “Too often we think of wildlife, biodiversity, as something ‘pretty to look at’, but humans are a part of that biodiversity and our health depends on it – from the water we drink, the air we breathe, the food we eat, the medicines we need, to our mental wellbeing.
“That’s why I’m proud to support these medical students at the start of their careers exploring the vital link between biodiversity and human health.”
All medical students in the UK are eligible to enter. The competition is free to enter and you must be a DAUK member to enter. Membership is free for medical students.
Visit the membership section of the DAUK website for more details.
Please ensure essays are in font size 12, are double spaced, are in Harvard or Vancouver style referencing with a maximum of five references.
The closing date for entries is 30 April.
Essays should be submitted via the DAUK website by visiting https://form.jotform.com/240785695420059
