Growing up in rural Denmark, I spent most of my childhood outdoors. My passion for nature led to me to pursue a PhD in Conservation Social Science (Geography) focused on protected area establishment in central Romania. I’ve since worked for environmental non-profits and as a researcher on various projects pertaining to terrestrial and marine conservation, northern housing, and social enterprises. I’m an avid hiker with a particular love for coastal environments. Email: mlaastrup @ birdscanada.org