Julie

student @ BGI (MBA in Sustainable Business)

Today’s Date: July 16, 2008

1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?

The vastness of being in an open field, or looking into a moon- and star-lit sky makes me realize how much there is "out there" to learn about, dream about, and be a part of.

2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?

Still the same - the beach. Growing up, my family and friends would go for days or weeks each summer; the beach "meant" summer to me. Now it is more a place where I go to be amazed by the sounds of the waves, the expanse of the sand, and the surprises of the wildlife.

3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?

I call myself "a cat in the window" - very aware of my surroundings, yet somehow tending to be on the outside looking in (or inside looking out as the cat may be).. The evolution of moths and butterflies amazes me. I also am a fan of goats because they are stubborn and determined to get what they want!

4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?

The increasing temperatures of Earth and water; on the "cuddly and cute" level, images of polar bears stranded on shrinking icebergs scare me; but really this is more pertinent at a base level of run-off ecosystems, ocean-side towns, and systems that start with ocean-side environments.

5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?

We live in a library; if you can't return what you use, at least be conscious of what you are doing, and be as frugal as possible with what belongs to everyone.