The Birgit Elands Thesis Award gives recognition to students at Dutch universities and universities of applied sciences who can increase our understanding of human-nature relationships and the pathways to strengthen this relationship, which can contribute to inclusive transformative change.

We accept theses on a wide range of topics within this general aim, including studies related to nature and health, nature-positive design, green activism, cultural practices, humans and forests, nature-based learning, transformative research, etc.

The best thesis will win 1000 Euros and be able to plant a tree.

The award is given by the Forest and Nature Conservation Policy Group of Wageningen University, Staatsbosbeheer and Natuurcollege. The price consists of a tree to be planted at the Wageningen Food Forest and 1000 Euros.

In addition to the main prize, a special prize will be awarded this year to mark the Dutch 'Year of the Forest' for the most inspiring thesis on trees, forests or forest management.

Criteria for submission:

1. The thesis should be finalised, evaluated, and graded between 1 Sept 2023 and 1 Sept 2024.
2. Only MSc theses from Dutch universities and BSc theses from universities of applied sciences are accepted for submission.
3. The thesis should have a formal grading of 8.0 or higher.
4. Only supervisors of theses can nominate a thesis. A supervisor submits with an A4 letter of recommendation (including the grading) and a statement on the contributions to the relevant field of research.

Please email your submission to office.fnp@wur.nl before 30 September 2024. Indicate 'Birgit Elands thesis award' in the mail heading.

See here for more information about the Birgit Elands Award and past winners.