Registration process will happen in two rounds , in February and March 2026.
Please note: This symposium is free and the venue is limited in capacity, which means we might not accept your application. For the first round we will let you know by February 27th 2026 if you have a spot. 
About the symposium
This two-day symposium aims to initiate dialogue between generations, transfer knowledge, and offer young people concrete opportunities to take action for peatlands and climate justice.
# On the first day (18th of May) we will be inviting 120 youth participants, and over 30 experts, to take part in a crash course on Dutch peatlands. Participants will be selected from relevant learning institutions in the region.
Outline of the programme:
In the morning, each participant will experience two sessions to understand two systems that interact with peatlands. They will be led by experts and will look into how and why peatlands relate to agriculture, health, cultural identity, climate justice and future work.
Speakers include world famous peatland scientist Hans Joosten and slow fashion UK start-up Ponda!
The afternoon will be a more hands-on half of the programme, where participants and experts will collaboratively engage with these topics, while co-designing peatland restoration camps. Followed by proposal pitches and a jury deciding on which camp will come to life!
# On the second day (19th May), in collaboration with the local land managers, we will be offering various excursions to the Fochteloërveen where the participants can experience what a healthy peatland looks and feels like.
Language of the Symposium:
Dutch and English
posters to share around
Click on the image to download the poster!
where & what to expect
Photo 1: Egbert Deboer
Photo 3 & 5: Anja Mathes
Photo 2 & 4: Frankie Turk
Young People Old Peat Symposium is organised by RE-PEAT members Frankie Turk and Holly Bartley in collaboration with Petra Boorsma, Biosintrum director.
Alongside the support from RE-PEAT members, Judith Schubert, Halima Tantawy and Milan Kale.
With help from Restoration Academy Youth Advisory Board members and partner organisations members.
