In 2006, I found myself at St Paul’s Cathedral in London, waiting nervously to speak about a pressing issue: the climate crisis. I was scheduled to share the stage with the renowned Sir David Attenborough. Minutes before I was set to begin, I noticed he had not arrived, and I worried that the crowd was there to see him, not me. Thankfully, just as I started to talk about the role of carbon dioxide in controlling Earth’s climate, David walked in, and with that, my nerves settled a bit.
David took the stage after me. His message was simple: the climate crisis is urgent, and action is necessary now. Looking at the captivated audience, I understood why he is one of the most beloved figures worldwide. As we approach his upcoming 100th birthday, this moment remains unforgettable.
After our event, David explained that he had rushed from Bristol, where he was working on a documentary. His commitment is as remarkable as his talent. Over the years, we’ve formed a strong friendship. Our conversations often mix serious discussions about climate science with light-hearted banter. We both share a passion for books, especially rare finds about zoology and history.
In fact, in 1998, I named a species of echidna after him, which felt fitting as he has always been fond of monotremes. At that time, we feared this particular echidna might be extinct, until 2023 when it was spotted again in Papua. The timing was serendipitous, as I was in London and able to share the exciting news with him in person. Seeing his beaming smile made the moment even more special.
David’s passion for learning and adapting is remarkable. Each of his documentaries embodies extensive personal research, showcasing his commitment to understanding and presenting nature authentically. He insists that nature, not the presenter, should star in these films. This humility sets him apart in a world of self-promotion.
With climate change remaining a critical global issue, David’s work continues to inspire. Recent statistics reveal that climate anxiety is on the rise, with nearly 60% of young people expressing feelings of distress over the state of the planet. David’s advocacy for sustainability and biodiversity remains vital as we face these pressing challenges.
This ongoing commitment is a reminder of how important it is for us to act for our planet, and David embodies this ethos perfectly. Happy birthday, David Attenborough!
Professor Tim Flannery is a distinguished fellow at the Australian Museum and has dedicated much of his life to climate change research and advocacy. His contributions to the field make him a prominent voice in discussions about our environment.
