Staff members of the Herman Ottó Institute Nonprofit Ltd., Renáta Bocz (integrated project manager of Grassland-HU LIFE IP) and Olivér Váczi (project leader of CitellusLIFE), discussed this year’s "Mammal of the Year" in an episode of the Greendex podcast. The focus was on a species that is now strictly protected and serves as an essential ecological keystone species for the survival of entire ecosystems.
But how are this year’s Mammal of the Year—the steppe polecat, selected by the Vadonleső Program’s professional community for 2026—the Grassland-HU LIFE Integrated Project, and CitellusLIFE connected?
During the conversation with Greendex podcast host Zsombor Novák, the guests seek to answer these questions. They provide a detailed look at the role of Pannonian grassland protection in the fight against climate change and why it is crucial for the survival of other rare species.
The podcast also explores the common ground between agriculture and nature conservation, showcasing model farms that prove grassland management methods—such as nature-friendly grazing or mowing—can be economically viable. Additionally, listeners receive useful advice and practical experience on how to prepare successful LIFE grant applications for ecological or conservation purposes.
Source: greendex.hu