Jan Jenik

Emer. Professor - Charles University, Prague

Today’s Date: 24 July 2008

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

Mountains´ geo-biodiversity and tropical rain forest’s biodiversity, which substantially impacted my private and professional life. With regard to animal life, the true understanding of non-human soul/substance came only when I started raising a pet dog (in my 60-year-long age)!

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

I do not remember

Now? A few sites in European mountains where I succeeded to disclose hitherto unknown botanical and ecological phenomena.

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

A dog, dog! It is a creature unlocking your mind to non-human life; possibly, other pets may have similar impact.

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?

Both now and in the future: To keep the human population at moderate size (no birth-rate increase!) and control sustainable environment (incl. the majority of biodiversity)

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

Be modest in all requirements (food, materials, energy, space) and be helpful in wildlife conservation