Earthna Summit 2025

Thijs Biersteker

Thank you for attending the session

Towards a Nature Positive Planet
at
Earthna Summit 2025


Below are the research sources mentioned during the talk, along with the projects that were presented.

We are starting the
Woven Foundation
to weave together
science and culture
to transform and accelerate how we understand, value, and protect our planet.

We help scientists give their research reach.

Key theories referenced in this talk:


Psychology, Cognitive Science, Behavioral Economics, and Social Change Studies.

—

Smith & Semin (2004) on Embodied Cognition
 Explains that when scientific facts are linked to physical experiences, they become more memorable and accessible, allowing for a broader reach.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0065260104360028?via%3Dihub

Damasio’s “Descartes’ Error: Emotion, Reason, and the Human Brain” (1994)
Shows that emotions are essential for rational decision-making, underscoring that personal, relatable experiences help people process complex information.
https://archive.org/details/antonio-damasio-descartes-error

Tversky & Kahneman’s Prospect Theory (1979):
 Demonstrates that clear options prompt decision-making, especially when these choices are transparently linked to reliable outcomes.
https://web.mit.edu/curhan/www/docs/Articles/15341_Readings/Behavioral_Decision_Theory/Kahneman_Tversky_1979_Prospect_theory.pdf


Bandura’s Self-Efficacy Theory (1977):
 Highlights that when people believe they can make a difference, they are more likely to act—emphasizing the importance of pathways that empower everyone.
https://educational-innovation.sydney.edu.au/news/pdfs/Bandura%201977.pdf

Ajzen’s Theory of Planned Behavior (1991)
Demonstrates that when people see clear, trusted information and feel a sense of control, they are more likely to take action.
http://www.sietmanagement.fr/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Azjen.pdf


Tajfel & Turner’s Social Identity Theory:
Explains that collective identity and a sense of belonging motivate group action, stressing the need for inclusive participation.
https://christosaioannou.com/Tajfel%20and%20Turner%201986.pdf

Key artworks referenced in this talk:
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The fragility of the Cacao Supply Chain

A data-driven artwork that bridges the gap between the beginning and the end of the cacao supply chain, transforming an abstract global crisis into an immediate, tangible experience.

Cigarette Butt Pollution

A clear example where one cigarette’s impact on water pollution is made tangible, helping people see the real-world implications of the statistics.

‘Econario’

Interactive visualizations that illustrate policy choices and their outcomes, offering a clear and trusted roadmap to a better future.

In collaboration with Natural History Museum

Glacier Scenarios

Experiences that transform complex climate data into clear, accessible scenarios, enabling audiences to understand the precise steps they can take.

In collaboration with Villars Institute

‘Amazonium’

Real-time reforestation data that invites the public to witness and verify nature’s recovery, building trust and reinforcing community involvement.

In collaboration with UNESCO

Interactive Restoration Artworks

Projects that allow audiences to interact with and verify scientific data, making participation a key part of understanding and action.