In this episode, we're taking a hike. Together with Mara de Pater, transitions researcher specializing in biodiversity, and Samuelle van Deutekom, forest ranger, we're walking through the Dunes of Schoorl. It's a coastal area an hour’s drive North of Amsterdam, and we think it’s a prime example of biodiversity restoration.

We talk about soil and become familiar with the peculiar history of Schoorl's pine trees. We hear why relatively recent forest fires and unorthodox forest management are a blessing for the local biodiversity. And we discuss how so-called transitional zones elsewhere could relieve areas like Schoorl, and help us all in the biodiversity and climate crisis.

This podcast was made possible by the BIONEXT project, which is co-funded by the European Union and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) under the UK government’s Horizon Europe funding guarantee 10039588. For more information, go to bionext-project.eu

Thanks to: Staatsbosbeheer & Samuelle van Deutekom for giving us their time and access to the area, Audrey Wientjes for voice-over, Paul Mahoney & Oppla for editing, Walvisnest for music, and all our DRIFT & BIONEXT colleagues for support and inspiration.