What if we let nature take its course more often — is that the future of conservation, or a dangerous illusion? Is it a necessary step toward ecological restoration, or do we risk giving up valuable landscapes and species for a romantic ideal? Join the debate (in Dutch).
In the Low Countries, nothing is left to chance. Every patch of land is planned, divided, and managed. We mow, cut, and adjust—down to the smallest detail. But what if we did a little less of that? What if we let nature decide for itself a bit more? Rewilding—or verwildering—is a provocative vision of nature that clashes with the classical idea of “management and protection.”
In this debate, we dive into the world of wild rivers, returning animals, and cross-border ecosystems. What does our view of nature reveal about ourselves? About humanity’s place in the bigger picture? And how wild can it really get in a region where everything is already occupied, designed, and constrained? How differently do Flanders and the Netherlands view this phenomenon?
During this debate evening, we’ll search for answers together with:
- Katrien Schaerlaekens, art historian at Regionaal Landschap Kempen en Maasland
- Linde De Vroey, author of Verwildering, on hopeful yet complex real-world examples
- Norbert Peeters, botanical philosopher and author of Wildernisvernis, on the philosophy and pitfalls of the rewilding ideal
- Ann De Bie, journalist, will guide this untamed conversation
Evening in Dutch
Practical information
Tuesday, 9 December, 2025 – 19:30 until 21:00
deBuren
Leopoldstraat 6
1000 Brussels
Pay what you can between 3€ and 10€. Suggested price 7€
Contact: ine.de.bock@vub.be