Inaugural lecture Kim Poldner: Regeneratieve Renaissance: Transforming realities, (eco)systems- and ourselves

On Friday 28 March, Endowed Professor Kim Poldner will hold her inaugural lecture titled 'Regenerative Renaissance: Transforming realities, (eco)systems- and ourselves'. Poldner holds the special chair Regional and Circular Economic Development. This chair is a joint initiative of FEB, the UG’s Faculty of Spatial Sciences and the three northern provinces: Drenthe, Friesland, Groningen.

From circular to regenerative: The road to a sustainable future

Our economy needs a fundamental transformation. Not just from linear to circular, but also from extractive to regenerative. This means that we no longer just try to limit damage, but actively contribute to recovery and renewal - of ecosystems, communities and ourselves. During her inaugural lecture at the University of Groningen, Endowed Professor Kim Poldner will discuss how we can make this transition on three levels: realities, (eco)systems and ourselves.

From circular economy to regenerative ecosystems

Many circular initiatives optimize within an existing system without changing the core principles of said system. But to make a real impact, we must move to a regenerative model in which we restore rather than deplete. This requires collaboration, innovative strategies and a radically new mindset.

Leadership and an awareness shift

True transformation not just requires new technologies or policies, but also a shift in how we see ourselves and our role in the bigger picture. Inner transformation plays a key role in this: without a change in mindset, there will be no lasting change in the outside world.

Building regenerative ecosystems together

In the North of the Netherlands, Poldner and her colleagues work with pioneers who are putting regeneration into practice, from circular textile hubs to regenerative agriculture. Through knowledge sharing, co-creation and experimentation, Poldner aims to create an (entrepreneurial) ecosystem that not only causes less damage, but actually adds value.

The Regenerative Renaissance

We live in a time of transition, where old structures no longer work and a new system has yet to take shape. Now is the time to work together to build a regenerative economy that works within the ecological limits of our planet.

Get involved!

Do you want to contribute to this transition? Do you have ideas or experiences with regenerative development? Share them with Kim Poldner and let's regenerate the future together!

More information

Kim Poldner’s inaugural lecture will take place on Friday 28 March 2025, 16:15 - 17:00, in the aula of the Academy Building.

Livestream on 28 March 2025, see www.rug.nl/digitale-oratie