The Bahá'í Faith
There is no easy way to describe the influence the Bahá'í Faith has had on my life, since the principles, values and vision of this new world religion have been determinant in everything I have done or tried to do. From the beginning, they set me on a path of service to humanity. For information on my Bahá'í activities see my Bahá'í curriculum vitae. Since I am frequently invited by Bahá'í communities to give lectures, I have included a page of some of my Topics for talks, apart from those in my professional fields.

International Environment Forum
This Bahá'í-inspired organization, which I helped to found, combines my professional and personal interests, as it bridges the worlds of science and religion, and tries to be of service to the world by applying spiritual principles to the practical problems of the environment and sustainable development. Many of my papers on these topics can be found on this site. It also has an e-learning centre on sustainability.

 My main hobby and recreation has always been rebuilding and landscaping old houses. Working with my hands, or digging in the garden, are an essential break from intellectual work and the office routine of an international civil servant. I no longer need a big house for a family, so now I spend part of my time at my little chalet in the forest in France. These pages show the natural beauties of my forest in different seasons and some of my activities there.

My life in Vernier (Geneva)
As a resident of Switzerland, I spend the majority of my time in Geneva, living in a tiny apartment in the municipality of Vernier, a three minute walk from my office in International Environment House. I am a member of the Bahá'í community of Vernier.

Travel
Since I spend about a third of my time traveling, it is more than a hobby. Between professional trips (that continue even though I am formally retired), travel for the Bahá'í Faith, and visits to family, I have managed to travel to more than 80 countries. The pages here describe some of my recent trips, with occasional photographs.

Art and beauty are a much a part of my life as science and religion. Among the artists whose work I admire, Mark Tobey has a special place. Here you will see why.