Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development, Utrecht University

Nature-based solutions like green roofs in cities and ecosystem-based approaches to agriculture are a vital piece of the puzzle for creating sustainable societies. 🐝 🌱 🪴 However, their implementation faces numerous challenges. Researchers from Utrecht University, Windesheim, Avans University of Applied Sciencess & Het Groene Brein have joined forces to explore how networks—groups of interconnected actors with shared goals—can break down barriers to nature-based solutions. New research explores how networks such as Cirkelstad—a platform for leaders in the circular and inclusive construction sector—or Herenboeren Nederland— a national network for cooperative, self-harvesting regenerative farms—can help their respective sectors overcome obstacles to the implementation of Nature-based Solutions. The article was authored by Maryse Chappin, Maarten Punt, Helen Toxopeus, Nina van Tilburg, Cathy de Jongh, Hens Runhaar & Godelieve Spaas. Curious? Find out more about how networks can help us make the most of nature-based solutions here: https://lnkd.in/euHRj9g9

With much of the data that governments need to make evidence-based decisions on pressing societal challenges in the hands of the private sector, governments increasingly resort to purchasing data from companies. But how common is this actually, and can it be problematic? Over the last year, a research team based at the Copernicus Institute, Utrecht Data School and the Utrecht University School of Economics has taken the first steps in creating an evidence base about data purchasing by governments in the Netherlands, collecting 33 cases of purchases of company data by national, regional, and local levels of the Dutch government. “Our analysis maps the buyers and sellers, as well as what the purchase contained, and in which policy domains,” explain researchers Iryna Susha, Sofie de Wilde de Ligny, Mirko Tobias Schäfer & Fredo Schotanus. Curious? Learn more about their preliminary results here: https://lnkd.in/eJWUEQkf

We are proud to share that Copernicus Ralph J.M. Temmink has won a prestigious NWO (Dutch Research Council) Veni grant for cutting-edge research on peatland restoration! ✨ By researching and developing innovative restoration methods that use facilitation of peat mosses, Ralph aims to make peat restoration more successful, helping restore biodiversity and implement climate-mitigating measures. Read more about Ralph's work and the research of the 13 other Veni laureates from across Utrecht University here: https://lnkd.in/ezZKZuNa

The Netherlands Scientific Climate Council shares their advice on CO2 removal: "Act decisively and with caution". The Scientific Climate Council—Wetenschapelijk Klimaatraad (WKR) in Dutch—is an independent advisory body in the Netherlands in the field of climate policy. Its task is to advise the Dutch government and parliament on climate policy, both upon request and on its own initiative. Copernicus' Dr. Sanne Akerboom, whose research investigates how an effective and fair transition can be promoted, is a member of the WKR. Watch her explain the council's advice through the link below 👇

Join us as a funded Visiting Scholar working on the topic of governing environmental problem-shifting! As a visiting scholar, you will actively engage with cutting-edge ERC research on environmental problem-shifting led by Rakhyun E. Kim and take the lead on a collaborative research output. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to high-impact research in the field of global environmental governance! What do we offer? 🔹 𝗔 𝗳𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘁: Return travel (train/flight) and a stipend of 2,000 euros per month to cover accommodation and living expenses for up to three months (length of time negotiable). 🔹 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁: Full access to the university’s resources, including office space and facilities. 🔹 𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲: Coverage of open access fees for any publications resulting from your research. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged. More information, including application requirements, can be found here: https://lnkd.in/ef4qw6Xm Strategic theme Pathways to Sustainability (Utrecht University) Faculty of Geosciences (Utrecht University)

Deadline approaching! Don't miss the 10 available registration waivers for early career researchers. More info 👇

Yesterday evening our colleague Prof. Hens Runhaar responded to the new Dutch cabinet's plans for the agricultural sector on NPO 1 current affairs programme EenVandaag. His evaluation: Farmers do not stand to benefit from the new cabinet's plans. Missed it? Catch up 👇

How might artistic practices enable radical imagination and politics? From July 3–5, the Urban Futures Studio and Community Portal @ BAK, basis voor actuele kunst are convening 30 artist-researcher-practitioners to explore this question. The Utopia*Art*Politics Sessions explore the potential of utopia as a creative and plural method for justice. With keynotes from Lola Olufemi and Stephen Duncombe, this event brings together 30 artist-researcher-practitioners actively experimenting with how artistic practices can help reimagine and remake our world. Three moments of the event are open to the public. Find out more and register for free here: https://lnkd.in/dPJhQg8c

🎉 Thrilled to celebrate this incredible achievement! Congratulations to Prof. Detlef Van Vuuren for receiving the highest accolade in Dutch science—the Spinoza Prize! It's a testament to your groundbreaking work and dedication to advancing our understanding of how we can achieve a more sustainable future for all. We're proud to have you as our colleague and your work inspires us all. Well-deserved recognition for an outstanding scientist with real-world impact! 👏👏

The European Forest Institute has awarded €140,000 to Utrecht University's 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 & 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗛𝘂𝗯 𝗨𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗵𝘁𝘀𝗲 𝗛𝗲𝘂𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗿𝘂𝗴 for research into climate-smart forest management on the Utrechtse Heuvelrug. Like many European forests, the species diversity and forest structure leave the forests on the Utrechtse Heuvelrug vulnerable to increasing drought and heat stress related to climate change. There are also challenges related to nitrogen deposition and highly acidified sandy soil. “With this grant we can take the first steps towards increasing knowledge about ecosystem restoration in the area’s nature reserves,” says hub researcher Rene Verburg, an assistant professor at the Copernicus Institute. The Research & Education Hub Utrechtse Heuvelrug is a collaboration between Utrecht University, Nationaal Park Utrechtse Heuvelrug and Staatsbosbeheer. Within the Hub, scientists, students and other societal partners contribute to the protection, conservation and development of the area's nature, landscape and cultural-historical heritage. Find out more here: https://lnkd.in/e9ataktJ