A Comment piece by Henry Nicholls in this week’s Nature charts how conservation brands have gone from homespun, anatomically accurate, single-species creations to stylized, abstract, frequently global images. This is a direct reflection of the conservation movement’s journey from a single- to a multi-species focus, with organizations increasingly operating at the level of habitats, ecosystems and the planet. It also reflects the increasing reliance on design and advertising agencies as the charities have moved from backroom to boardroom operations.

Nicholls has produced a dipity timeline to illustrate the brand evolution he traces, set so that anyone can add a new event. So if you work for (or are a member of) a conservation organization not covered please feel free to add to the timeline.

Image: WWF