Tim van Hattum

About Tim van Hattum

Tim van Hattum is a climate expert and writer. He serves as Head of the Climate Programme at Wageningen University & Research. With over 25 years of experience as a consultant, policy advisor and researcher, Tim works on climate and water-related issues both in the Netherlands and internationally. In recent years, he has frequently appeared in the media to discuss climate solutions and the complex challenges facing the Netherlands.

In 2022, his book Only Planet: Climate Guide for the 21st Century was published, in which he outlines seven pathways towards a hopeful future. Tim’s core message is that climate change and biodiversity loss are the greatest challenges of the 21st century, but that it is not too late to take action. Most of the solutions are already available, and nature itself is our most powerful climate solution. There is no time for despair, now is the time for action.

Together with a multidisciplinary team of researchers, he previously developed a vision of how the Netherlands could look in 2120 if we work more closely with nature. This future perspective for the Netherlands in 2120 received widespread media attention, including appearances on the current affairs programme Buitenhof, RTL Nieuws, and two special climate broadcasts by NOS. In addition, he delivered a TEDx talk on this vision to an international audience. The much-discussed vision has inspired many and has been the subject of discussions with ministers and representatives of the European Commission.

Tim speaks passionately about the urgency of addressing climate change and biodiversity loss, and the solutions available to tackle these two pressing challenges. He clearly articulates why a long-term vision is essential and how it can help accelerate short-term action. With his fresh narrative of hope and action, Tim consistently surprises and inspires his audience to contribute to the transition towards a sustainable future.