As the world faces increasing environmental challenges, the construction industry is undergoing a revolutionary shift. By 2030, 30% of new homes in the Netherlands must be made from biobased materials. But right now, that number is only 2-3%. Clearly, there’s a lot of work to do.
VPRO Tegenlicht Meet Up: Farming the Future
Date: Thursday, 7th of November, 12.00-14.00 (lunch included)
Location: SustainaLab, Matrix ONE, Amsterdam Science Park 301, 1098 XH Amsterdam.
In the VPRO Tegenlicht episode, ‘Bouwen met de Boer‘, we see how farmers and builders are partnering to lead the material transition, using natural and local resources to create a more sustainable future. Could these innovations reduce our reliance on polluting materials like concrete and steel, while offering new opportunities for farmers and restoring nature? This transition isn’t just a dream – pioneers are already proving it can be done. We meet innovators like Luc and Wout de Wit, the so-called ‘Building Farmers’, who are cultivating hemp in Utrecht to construct biobased tiny houses. Or Drenthe-based farmer Koos Vos, who traded his cattle for elephant and mammoth grass, using these crops as insulation materials for buildings. These efforts highlight how natural fibers such as straw, hemp, and bamboo can be cultivated across the country, transforming the construction industry and creating healthier environment.
Watch the summary of the episode with English subtitles here.
During our Meet Up, we will bring together perspectives from academia, practical innovators, and the business sector, all exploring the possibilities of biobased building. We will dive into how natural materials can be integrated into mainstream construction. We learn about which materials are sustainable; in their quality and endurance, but also which innovations there can be made. What needs to be done to set up bio-based production chains, from crop to building. Whether you’re a researcher, entrepreneur, builder, or simply curious about the future of sustainable construction, this is an opportunity to learn, exchange ideas, and connect with others committed to creating a greener future.
Line-up:
– Director Geert Rozinga and researcher William de Bruijn, the documentary makers from VPRO Tegenlicht, will elaborate on their motivations and the creation of the episode.
– Sam Edens is a biodesigner and researcher at the Hogeschool van Amsterdam, who conducts research into the durability of biobased building materials.
– Dominique Vosmaer is Chain Director Biobased Building at Building Balance, a national programme that initiates, promotes and supports independent regional and national biobased building chains.
– Moderation: Bart Krull.
Participation is free, and a delicious lunch will be provided. Space is limited, so don’t miss out!
Register by sending an email to maartje@sustainalab.nl