sustainable Coffee ecosystems

In this talk, we will explore how the coffee industry can become more sustainable—for both people and the environment. Together with local pioneers such as Rotterzwam and Noorderwind, we will discuss what can be done to reduce negative impacts on the planet and how we can inspire sustainable practices and trends in the city.

Mark Slegers is a pioneer in the Dutch circular economy and co-founder & CEO of Rotterzwam, a social enterprise that grows oyster mushrooms on coffee grounds and converts organic waste streams into sustainable products. He is also closely involved in BlueCity, a hub and network for blue economy initiatives in Rotterdam. With a background in biotechnology (Hogeschool Rotterdam), Mark left a career in the energy sector to focus on hands-on sustainable innovation. His work has sometimes challenged regulation and public perception, but he has stayed committed to proving circular ideas can scale and have impact.

Thijs Weenk likes figuring out things that don't usually go together: strategy and actually doing stuff, big-picture thinking and what works in practice, business results and how people feel along the way. He helps startups find their way to market and SME-companies that want to change. Rather run a pilot than have another meeting. Rather sketch something quickly than talk endlessly. Thijs works hands-on – whether that's coaching, untangling a process, or figuring out the next step with a team. Also: holding up a mirror when needed, gently confronting what's not working, and creating space to look together at what's actually happening. That's how people learn what works.

The moderator, Lowik Pieters a co-founded Evermore with his parents in 2008, making it the oldest coffee roastery in operation in Rotterdam. He is an Industrial Ecologist and part-time barista. Combining his interest for sustainability analyses and good coffee (and tea!), he likes to be surprised by product innovations that combine taste and transparency.

This talk is in Dutch.

Join the talk – no registration required. Just make sure you grab a festival ticket here.