Mag. Georg Frank
Keen enthusiast for rivers and wilderness, Mag. Georg Frank is the Secretary General at the DANUBEPARKS Network of protected areas, an organization he helped to establish. He has been recognized for his contributions to nature conservation with the prestigious Wolfgang Staab Nature Conservation Prize. Additionally, Georg plays a vital role as an integral member of the Donau Auen National Park.
Prof. RNDr Vladimír Kováč, CSc.
Prof. RNDr Vladimír Kováč, CSc. is a specialist in aquatic ecology and biology at AQ-BIOS, s.r.o. (previously a professor at Comenius University, Faculty of Natural Sciences in Bratislava). His research activities include river ecology, monitoring of fish communities, biological invasions, ontogeny, ecomorphology, and phenotypic plasticity of fishes. He has also played an active role in implementing the EU Water Framework Directive in Slovakia.
Species, habitats & biodiversity
RNDr. Dušan Žitňan, DrSc.
RNDr. Dušan Žitňan, DrSc. is a renowned scientist and zoologist at the Slovak Academy of Sciences. With expertise in zoology and molecular physiology, his research enhances our understanding of organismal functions and adaptations. Dušan’s leadership inspires fellow researchers and shapes the institute’s direction, ensuring its prominence in zoological research. He is also a keen lepidopterologist, with exceptional knowledge on ecology and distribution of day butterflies in Slovakia and the need for their conservation.
RNDr. Daniel Dítě, PhD.
RNDr. Daniel Dítě, PhD. is a highly accomplished senior researcher at the Plant Science and Biodiversity Centre, Institute of Botany at the Slovak Academy of Sciences. With expertise in plant science, he conducts crucial research on biodiversity, exploring plant species, their distribution, and ecological interactions. Daniel collaborates with fellow researchers, shaping our understanding of plant science and biodiversity conservation.
Mgr. Lukáš Čížek, PhD.
Mgr. Lukáš Čížek, Ph.D. works at the Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences as head of the Department of Biodiversity and Conservation Biology (Czech Academy of Sciences). He specializes in insect ecology and conservation with focus on threatened species, wooded habitats and their dynamics. Part of his time is dedicated to popularization and attempts to push effective, evidence-based approaches to biodiversity conservation into practice. More on: https://www.oldtree.cz/
Ing. Martin Škorpík
Martin Škorpík is a highly accomplished professional who currently serves as the Head of the Department of Special Nature Conservation and Strategic Planning, Management of Podyjí National Park in the Czech Republic. With his extensive expertise and experience in the field of nature conservation, Martin plays a pivotal role in overseeing and implementing strategic plans for the preservation and management of this ecologically significant national park.
Nat Page
Nat Page is President of Fundatia ADEPT, an NGO based in Saschiz, Romania, with outstanding results in biodiversity conservation in farmed landscapes. ADEPT develops integrated strategies for protecting Romania’s ecosystems and wildlife and promoting sustainable development in rural areas. ADEPT has a key role in farmland biodiversity conservation in Romania.
Nat oversees strategy, project management and fundraising. He has a background in Zoology, 15 years in H.M. Diplomatic Service (final posting was to British Embassy Bucharest), and now divides his time between managing his organic beef farm in southwest England and promoting conservation of the High Nature Value farmed landscapes of Romania.
Eco Tourism & Education
Fűzfa Zoltán
Fűzfa Zoltán is a dedicated individual with multiple roles in education and environmental conservation. As President of the Pisztráng Kör (Trout Circle) NGO, he leads efforts to conserve and protect trout populations. He is also a biology and geography teacher, inspiring students about biodiversity and environmental stewardship. As a Waldorf educator, he fosters a deep appreciation for nature and responsibility towards the environment. Additionally, he excels in organizing environmental initiatives and serves as a canoe trip leader, promoting outdoor recreation and raising awareness about preserving aquatic ecosystems.