On Tuesday, May 27, 2025, One Planet Port participated with the Resilient Delta Initiative (RDi) who welcomed guests to a special screening of Een Kano Naar Zee (A Canoe to the Sea) at LantarenVenster in Rotterdam. This poignant documentary explores the evolution of the Port of Rotterdam, from its historic roots to the present-day industrial hub, and into the uncertain but hopeful future that lies ahead.
The event was part of the RDi’s Resilient Delta Port theme, which fosters new perspectives on the port’s role in creating a sustainable and resilient delta region. One Planet Port (OPP) enthusiastically invited a diverse group of stakeholders, including laborers working directly in the port, to this screening, as a step toward deepening our Community Cohesion pillar of work.
An Afternoon of Insight and Dialogue
The program opened with a welcome speech, followed by the documentary screening, which set the tone for a meaningful afternoon of reflection and conversation. The discussion that followed featured notable voices including:
-
- Prof. dr. Paul van de Laar, professor, historian and port expert
-
- Prof.dr.ing. Carola Hein, professor of history of architecture and urban planning
-
- André van der Hout, director of this film
Their dialogue explored the tensions and synergies between economic growth, environmental challenges, and social equity in port regions.
A Symbolic Gesture: The Future Tree
Following the discussion, Jaap Smit of Arboretum Trompenburg introduced The Future Tree, a living installation planted by RDi in the port area. Guests were invited to contribute a personal wish for the harbour by writing their thoughts on floral paper and hanging them on the tree—symbolizing hope, responsibility, and collective imagination for a resilient port future.
Strengthening Community Voices
This event aligns with OPP’s ongoing work to amplify the voices of port communities, particularly those who are often underrepresented in decision-making about the port’s development. By engaging workers, researchers, and residents in shared spaces of storytelling and dialogue, we aim to foster a more inclusive and sustainable vision for the port.
We thank RDi for organizing this moving and meaningful event, and look forward to further collaboration on building a port that serves both people and planet.