Join us for the second edition of SustainaLab Talks – a monthly series where we explore pressing sustainability challenges with leading experts and innovators.
This October, we turn our attention to PFAS, the so-called “forever chemicals”. Together, we will unpack the risks, policies, and cutting-edge alternatives shaping collective solutions to this urgent issue. From environmental impacts to breakthrough technologies, this session will inform, inspire, and spark action.
Speakers
- Luc Souchon, designer and critical chef, graduated from the Design Academy Eindhoven, works at the intersection of food, design, and sustainability. With his project PFAS Vishandel, he explores a performative, speculative, and sensory approach to environmental challenges through an immersive, thought-provoking experience.
- Ioanna Gkika, PhD candidate at the Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (University of Amsterdam), will introduce her project on the environmental risk assessment of PFAS — the so-called “forever chemicals” —. In her talk, she will delve into the environmental occurrence of PFAS and their bioaccumulation in living organisms.
- Jasper Kampman, Anaesthesiology resident at Amsterdam UMC and member of the local Green Team and national Sustainability Taskforce, will shed light on the presence of PFAS in hospital materials and anaesthetic gases. He will share insights from his research and discuss his efforts to replace these PFAS-containing greenhouse gases with more sustainable anaesthetic methods.
- Guido Brugman is a chemist and founder of Hydrogenium, where he has developed an innovative filter capable of isolating PFAS from surface water. His PFAS BioFilter — made primarily from wood chips — stands out as both biobased and circular, offering a unique, nature-based solution to a persistent pollution challenge.
👉 We will announce one more speaker soon to complete the line-up.
Who should join?
This event is for anyone curious about sustainability and innovation — from innovative businesses, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to students, researchers, and engaged citizen. Whether you’re working directly on PFAS-related issues or simply interested in how collective solutions can tackle complex environmental challenges, you’ll find inspiration here.
Event details
📅 Thursday, 9 October
🕒 15:30 – 18:00 (including networking drinks)
📍 SustainaLab, Matrix ONE
Amsterdam Science Park 301, 1098 XH Amsterdam
The program will conclude with drinks and networking.
Open to the public – everyone is welcome