conservationist
UK: ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃənɪst | US: ˌkɑːnsərˈveɪʃənɪst
n. a person who advocates or acts for the protection and preservation of the environment and wildlife
The word "conservationist" combines "conserve," derived from Latin conservare (to keep, preserve), with the suffix "-ation" (forming nouns of action) and "-ist" (denoting a person who practices or advocates something). The term emerged in the late 19th century, reflecting growing awareness of environmental protection. The morphemes logically progress from the action of preserving ("conserve") to the abstract concept ("conservation") and finally to the person advocating it ("conservationist").
The conservationist worked tirelessly to protect endangered species in the rainforest.
As a dedicated conservationist, she campaigned against deforestation.
The local conservationist group organized a beach cleanup event.
His research as a conservationist helped restore the wetland ecosystem.
Many conservationists argue that sustainable practices are key to combating climate change.