The relationship of humans to nature has long been a subject of discussion. Where we used to talk about climate change due to human influences, we are now talking about a climate crisis. A crisis against which many have been actively engaged for a long time. During this Alumni Talks we dive into the history of environmental activism and the state of the contemporary media landscape.

This evening, scientists and environmental activists will discuss the state of environmental activism in the Netherlands. Assistant Professor of History, Peter van Dam, discusses the origins of environmental activism and Media Studies lecturer, Maarten Reesink, talks about the way in which it is reported in the media. Environmental activists, Jelle de Graaf and Anja Reimann, join a panel discussion with the other speakers, led by moderator Voorn.

About the speakers

Peter van Dam is assistant professor at the University of Amsterdam and coordinator of the Environment & Society research group. He conducts research into the history of sustainability.

Maarten Reesink works at the Department of Media and Culture and the Institute for Disciplinary Studies at the University of Amsterdam, where he has been lecturing on human-animal studies since 2008. He is also co-founder of the Center for Human and Animal Studies.

Jelle de Graaf is a UvA alumnus of Political Science, intersectional activist, campaigner and strategic advisor.

Anja Reimann is a municipal project manager and environmental activist.

Audilla Voorn (moderator) is a VU alumnus of Communication Science (BA) and Culture, Organization and Management (MA), social worker, radio presenter and DJ.