08/05/2026
Few people have shaped our relationship with the natural world more profoundly than Sir David Attenborough.
For decades, his work has helped people see the beauty, complexity and fragility of the environments around us - and why protecting them matters.
As he celebrates his 100th birthday, we’re reflecting on the lasting influence his voice and advocacy continue to have across environmental professions, including our own. Many of our colleagues at FPCR have also been personally inspired by his work - from childhood fascination with the natural world through to careers dedicated to understanding, protecting and designing with nature.
Matt Loak, Director (Ecology) at FPCR, recalls meeting Sir David at the British Naturalists’ Association National Conference at Forest School, Epping, in 2006 or 2007:
“They say you should never meet your heroes, but he did not disappoint. We were lucky enough to spend an afternoon tea sitting on the lawn with him, and he was a charming and incredibly knowledgeable individual - genuinely interested in your perspective on the natural world and highly encouraging.”
Happy birthday, Sir David Attenborough. 💚
Environment
