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On 2 September, we will be welcoming Helga van Leur for a Barn Talk on one of the most recognisable and persistent challenges of our time: we are concerned about the climate, but our behaviour often fails to keep pace. Together with behavioural scientist and Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (HvA) lecturer Reint Jan Renes, she has written the book Alleen als jij het ook doet (*Only if you do it too*), an accessible and positive book about the (il)logic of our climate behaviour.
Why can’t we manage to do what we actually want to do? Why does cutting out a piece of meat sometimes feel like such a huge challenge, whilst turning the thermostat down by a degree is no problem at all? And how is it that we so often see ourselves as rational beings, whilst our behaviour is primarily driven by habits, temptations and social dynamics?
During this Barn Talk, we’ll be diving into the world of climate psychology, habit formation and collective change with Helga. She’ll be talking about five inner ‘monsters’ that explain how our climate behaviour comes about.
Helga’s strength lies in the way she speaks from a positive perspective and looks at how we can actually bring about behavioural change. She doesn’t focus on people’s mistakes, but on how we can act together for a better climate.
Join the conversation with Helga, share your insights and inspire other Barn Talk participants with your approach.
Helga van Leur, meteorologist, climate ambassador, speaker and co-author of Alleen als jij het ook doet (Only if you do it too). She is known for her clear explanations, her optimistic outlook and her ability to break down complex issues into human choices.
The Barn Talk takes place on Wednesday 2 September and starts at 4.15 pm (doors open from 4.00 pm).
Attendance at the Barn Talk is free of charge. You must register to reserve a place in the Energy Barn (places are limited). After the Barn Talk, everyone is welcome to join the networking drinks reception, which includes drinks and snacks.
Can’t make it in person? Register anyway and let us know that you’d like to follow the Barn Talk online.
Date: 2 September 2026
Time: 16:15 (doors open at 16:00)
End time: 17:15
Venue: Energy Barn, Zernikelaan 17, Groningen
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Have you already started looking into a Master’s programme and are you now looking for more detailed information? Then come along to the Master’s Open Day!
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Have you already looked into the programme online and in brochures, and are you now looking for more in-depth information? Then visit one of our Bachelor’s Open Days!
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More information will follow, but do keep 15 December free in your diary for an afternoon of meetings, networking and interesting pitches.
