Birgit Elands Award for outstanding theses

The competition is open to students at Dutch universities and at universities of applied sciences who contribute to our understanding of the human-nature relationship and pathways to strengthen this relationship to contribute to transformative change and inclusive nature-positive futures.

The price consists of a tree to be planted in the Wageningen Food Forest, and € 1000,-
Criteria for submission:
1. The thesis should be finalised, evaluated and graded in the academic year 2025-2026.
2. Only MSc theses from Dutch universities and BSc theses from universities of applied sciences (HBO) are accepted for submission.
3. The thesis should have a formal grading of 8.0 or higher.
4. The supervisor of the thesis writes a A4 letter of recommendation (including the grading) and a statement on the contributions to the relevant field of research.
5. The supervisor emails the letter of recommendation and the MSc thesis in a PDF format to office.fnp@wur.nl before 30 September 2026. Indicate 'Birgit Elands thesis award' in the mail heading.

The first award was given in 2022 in honour of the late dr. Birgit Elands of the Forest & Nature Conservation Policy Group of Wageningen University. She was highly motivated to conduct research into human-nature relationships, and made a significant contribution to the understanding of topics such as biocultural diversity, outdoor recreation, and the spiritual values ​​of nature. Birgit encouraged and supported students on their personal journey at the university and beyond. This prize is therefore a fitting tribute to an inspiring scientist.

The competition is organised by the Forest and Nature Conservation Policy Group of Wageningen university, Staatsbosbeheer and Natuurcollege.The jury consists of Arjen Buijs and Karin Peters (Wageningen University), Paul Roncken (Natuurcollege), and Marjolein Kloek (Staatsbosbeheer).