DWARSers in the states: Marieke Spekreijse

Can you introduce yourself briefly?

I am Marieke Spekreijse-Deijs, 27 years old, and married. I currently live in Zoetermeer, but I am originally from Friesland. I grew up there among the meadows and meadow birds. I come from a politically active and left-wing family. After secondary school, I went to study at Wageningen University, where I am currently completing my forest-nature management studies. I am also doing an internship for this at the municipality of Zoetermeer. In my spare time, I am campaign manager of GroenLinks Zoetermeer, I like to read and take pictures in nature.

Could you tell a bit about your history at DWARS?

I myself have only recently joined GroenLinks and DWARS, but both my siblings have been members of DWARS Leeuwarden. I learnt from them that way that young people can indeed make a difference, and actually want to work for a better future.

Why did you run for the Provincial Assembly?

In the years when I travelled to my high school by bike, I used to cycle between meadows. I noticed that I was already seeing fewer and fewer meadow birds myself. During my studies, it became increasingly clear to me how bad things are actually going with nature. Not only climate change is a problem, but also the disappearance of biodiversity for a variety of reasons. I also found out during my studies that the policymaker for nature reserves is the province. I wanted to stop standing on the sidelines and make a change. The place to fight for better nature is the province, so the choice was quickly made.

What would you do if you were elected?

I would ensure better nature values in the Green Heart. The Green Heart is currently an agricultural area, which brings its problems for nature. Ideally, I would look at better nature-agricultural policies of the area together with the farmers. Farmers will have to get out of conservative farming, and together look for innovative solutions. I will work for nature throughout Zuid-Holland, in more places for better nature, more biodiversity, and proper protection of it.

Got a great quote or one-liner?

For a greener South Holland.