Michael Miersch is managing director of the departments for communication and natural education at the Deutsche Wildtierstiftung. Previously, he worked as an author, columnist and journalist for major journals in science, society and politics, and wrote the scripts of numerous animal films for the german channels of ARD. In 2000, Miersch, together with co-authors and in cooperation with the IUCN and the UNEP, published the book „Life Counts – a global balance of life”, which received international attention. His books, reports and columns were translated into many languages and received awards at in Germany and abroad, including „Science Book of the Year“ twice.