A Voyage for a Better Future
Adventurers Floris van Hees and Ivar Smits left the corporate rat race behind to sail around the world for eight years in search of ecological solutions for a sustainable way of life.
In this inspiring talk, they will share what moved them to make this drastic change, the lessons they learned along the way, and highlight some of the 60 sustainable solutions they discovered during their travels.
From Concern to Action
Driven by concern for climate breakdown, biodiversity loss, pollution, and social inequality, Floris and Ivar realized that humanity needed a new course. To find it, they set sail from Amsterdam in 2016 aboard their renovated sailboat Lucipara 2, embarking on a mission as Sailors for Sustainability to seek and share real-world examples of positive change.
Exploring Solutions Around the World
Over eight years and more than 56,000 nautical miles, they visited 40 countries — from wild Patagonia and mysterious Easter Island to remote atolls and icy Greenland. Along the way, they met people generating renewable energy, growing food in harmony with nature, restoring ecosystems, and living well with less — proving that a sustainable and just future is possible.
- Regenerative Farming: In Brazil and New Zealand, Floris and Ivar discovered farmers restoring soil health and biodiversity through agro-ecological methods, turning degraded pastures into thriving gardens and orchards.
- Renewable Energy: In Andalusia and on El Hierro, they witnessed innovative systems combining solar, wind, and hydropower to supply clean energy around the clock.
- Circular and Indigenous Wisdom: From reusable packaging and recycled-plastic homes in South America to the Māori and Zulu worldviews that redefine humanity’s place in nature, they found inspiration for a more balanced way of living.
A Story of Hope
Through breathtaking stories and practical examples, Floris and Ivar show that sustainability is not a distant dream but a growing reality. Their journey offers hope and inspiration — and a concrete perspective for anyone who wants to take part in the transition to a better world.
📅 Thursday, 13th of November
🕒 16:00 – 18:00 (including networking drinks)
📍 SustainaLab, Matrix ONE Amsterdam Science Park 301, 1098 XH Amsterdam
This event is free and open to the public.