Interview with Michiel van der Stelt: Dive into the Future of Our Water
Water affects everything from our health and nature to the way we design our cities and shape our economy. But how can we ensure that our water system remains resilient to climate change and other challenges in the future?
During Utrecht Science Week, the Water Dialogue on 30 September brings together students, researchers, professionals, government representatives and businesses to discuss the future of our water. Initiative-taker Michiel van der Stelt, Sustainability Programme Manager at HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht, explains why he believes connecting knowledge and practice is essential for creating a water system that is ready for the future.
Water Dialogue: Dive into the Future of Our Water
On 30 September, Utrecht Science Week brings together technologists, financiers, policymakers and scientists for a Water Dialogue: an open conversation about the future of our water. The dialogue was initiated by Michiel van der Stelt, Sustainability Programme Manager at HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht: “Ultimately, it is about connecting knowledge and translating it into practical solutions.”
“I grew up in the Land van Altena, on the edge of the Biesbosch. I now live in IJburg. In both places, I am surrounded by water and nature. I increasingly realise how fundamental water is to a vital and healthy living environment. It affects our nature, our health, our economy and the way we design our cities and regions. It is precisely this combination of personal connection and societal relevance that makes me passionate about working on water,” says Michiel van der Stelt. His Water Dialogue about the future of water has since become a regular part of Utrecht Science Week.
Connecting Knowledge
How did the dialogue come about? Michiel explains: “The reason was actually quite simple: water is such an important societal issue, but the conversation about it is often held within separate sectors. Yet the challenges require collaboration and different perspectives. With the Water Dialogue, I wanted to bring together people who may not interact with each other every day: students, researchers, professionals, government representatives and people working in practice. Science and innovation are important, but ultimately it is about connecting knowledge and translating it into practical solutions.”
A New Generation
Translating knowledge into practical solutions is something Michiel is very much at home with at HU, which, as a university of applied sciences, focuses on creating value for professional practice. “We see that students want to work on issues that really matter. The future of our water is one such societal challenge. A lot needs to happen in the coming years. Think of the water treatment systems of the future, combating heat stress and making our living environment climate-resilient. This also makes water an interesting and relevant field for a new generation of professionals. Graduates find their way into a wide range of organisations, from drinking water companies to consultancies and research institutions. SMEs also play an important role, developing very concrete and innovative solutions.”
Changing Behaviour
But the solution to the water challenge does not lie in technology alone, Michiel argues. “Our behaviour and the way we deal with water also need to change. We will have to use water more sparingly and look at water much more as part of the entire system. A systems approach is therefore essential. By connecting knowledge, policy, technology, entrepreneurship and practice, we can take steps towards a water system that is fit for the future.”
A Prerequisite for the Future
For centuries, the Netherlands has shown that it is highly capable of living and working with water. But circumstances are changing rapidly. Climate change is causing more extreme droughts and rainfall. Nevertheless, Michiel remains optimistic. “The Netherlands has an enormous amount of knowledge, entrepreneurship and innovative strength in the field of water. The challenge is to apply that strength more quickly in practice. We need to take water more explicitly into account when making decisions about housing, agriculture, nature, energy and the economy. Water is not simply one of the factors we need to consider; it is a prerequisite for our future.”
The Water Dialogue: The Future of Our Water will take place on 30 September as part of Utrecht Science Week, from 15:00 to 18:00 at Stichting Utrecht Science Park, Heidelberglaan 11, Utrecht. Admission is free, but registration is required. Find more information here.
