By Anne van Berkum
Previous IEFLL Research Fellow
Alumnus of University of Iceland
November 2025
Early October I had the privilege of joining the INTERGEO expo 2025 in Frankfurt. This opportunity was made possible thanks to support from the Ormelingfonds, a generous fund connected to a family with a strong legacy in cartography. The journey was coordinated by Geo Informatie Nederland and Jong Geo, who brought together an energetic mix of students, newcomers and experienced professionals from across the Dutch geospatial community.
The expo itself was vast and full of innovation. Over the three days we explored cutting edge technologies and creative solutions shaping the future of geospatial work. From the newest drone systems and environmental sensors to advanced applications of geographic data, the diversity on display showcased how influential geo information science has become across many sectors.
On our way home we visited the Netherlands Consulate in Düsseldorf, where we were treated to presentations on how geospatial data informs policy making and international collaboration. Seeing real examples of data driven decisions being used to tackle societal challenges added a powerful dimension to the experience.
As a recent graduate of the International Ecological Footprint Learning Lab with a focus on geospatial analysis, this trip arrived at an exciting moment while I take my first steps into the professional world. There is a growing interest in using spatially explicit data to improve Ecological Footprint accounting. On Thursday February 19 I will present the results of my thesis where I set out to develop a satellite-based methodology to estimate built-up biocapacity. I hope the ideas and techniques put forward in this thesis can support ongoing discussions about the use of geodata in the accounts.
Thank you again to the Ormelingfonds, GIN and Jong Geo for making this unforgettable and encouraging experience possible.
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