Investing in people and nature

We used an English tradition to win over fishermen: afternoon tea! They’re not bad people but they didn’t understand. So we invited them to tea on the beach at the end of every day.

MedPAN plays a unique convening and connecting role. We don’t have a formal mandate but our collective expertise and reach mean everyone from the Commission to fishermen respect us.

I used to be into pollution and climate issues but I went travelling for six months in 2009 and discovered birds. Seeing amazing creatures like the Lilac-breasted roller in Africa triggered birding for me. I bought binoculars, a pocket guide and a notebook!

I began as a mammologist but discovered the incredible world of Mediterranean freshwater ecosystems. Their creatures and plants have astonishing survival strategies. It was a steep learning curve but the best thing I’ve done in my career.