Retirement and life re/insurance specialist Global Atlantic Financial Group has announced a $75,000 grant to BioQuest, a nonprofit organization focused on biodiversity conservation through genomics research.
The funding marks the beginning of a three-year collaboration intended to support BioQuest’s biodiversity research initiatives, with a focus on preserving species unique to Bermuda.
The grant, provided by the Bermuda-based Global Atlantic Re foundation, will support BioQuest’s ongoing work in protecting Bermuda’s ecosystem. The initial allocation will fund three projects: a study on the Bermuda Cahow, research to develop a reference genome for the Bermuda Skink, and the creation of a reference genome for the Bermuda Cedar Tree.
As part of the partnership, BioQuest will offer educational opportunities to Global Atlantic employees, including training sessions on species identification using DNA and insights into genetic research methods.
Additionally, employees may have the chance to choose specific species from a shortlist developed in collaboration with Bermuda’s Department of Environment & Natural Resources, allowing them to direct BioQuest’s focus in upcoming conservation projects.
Darryl Herrick (pictured right), president of Global Atlantic Re and co-head of reinsurance, expressed Global Atlantic’s commitment to environmental sustainability through this collaboration.
“This collaboration forms an ideal alignment with one of the three key pillars of the Global Atlantic Re foundation, embracing our commitment to environmental sustainability initiatives throughout the island,” Herrick said. “We look forward to the partnership’s contributions to help preserve our local environment for future generations, along with the educational journey for our employees and extended community engagement. We have a shared vision with BioQuest on the meaningful work we can accomplish together with lasting impact.”
BioQuest co-founder and executive director Jean-Pierre Rouja acknowledged the importance of the grant, which he said will significantly advance BioQuest’s capacity to conduct critical biodiversity work in Bermuda.
“By focusing on these keystone species, we are not only protecting individual species but also the broader ecosystems that rely on them. The hands-on educational component of this partnership will further strengthen our collaboration, offering valuable learning experiences to Global Atlantic staff and enriching our conservation efforts. We look forward to the positive impact this collaboration will have on both our biodiversity projects and the wider community,” Rouja said.
What are your thoughts on this story? Please feel free to share your comments below.
