Dies Natalis 2026: Sustainability for Everyone?

WUR places a strong emphasis on sustainability. But Gupta adds a dimension that often remains under-discussed.

“A sustainable world cannot exist without a just world. As long as inequality determines who has access to resources and who gets to make decisions, sustainable solutions will remain out of reach for many.”

Her research makes this tangible. For example, her team examined whether a major climate finance fund actually delivered its money to the communities in Ethiopia for whom it was intended — and whether those communities themselves had any say in how the funds were spent.

Gupta also warns against technological “quick fixes”. Solar geoengineering — in which reflective particles are sprayed into the stratosphere to cool the Earth — is presented by influential actors as a climate saviour. Gupta sees it differently.

“Such interventions have potentially devastating and unpredictable effects, particularly for regions that have contributed least to the climate crisis but are hit hardest by its consequences.”

Her message to scientists is as clear as it is ambitious.

“As scientists, we possess knowledge, international networks, and a focus on impact. That combination is rare. Use it to advance a form of sustainability that excludes no one.”

Alongside Aarti Gupta, the Dies Natalis will feature historian Larissa Schulte Nordholt, who will reflect on WUR’s colonial past, and lecturer Bert Bruins, who raises the question of who change is actually meant for. Two young researchers will also demonstrate how they are already making an impact as responsible changemakers.