Estelle De Bruyn

Estelle De Bruyn is the Head of the Sustainability Unit at the Royal Institute for Cultural Heritage (KIK-IRPA) in Belgium, where she has worked since 2018. With her team, she focuses on integrating sustainability into heritage conservation, leading research projects for environmentally-friendly practices. She also coordinates disaster risk management strategies in Belgium. Estelle has interned at ICCROM (Italy) and the Canadian Conservation Institute (Canada) and holds a Master's degree in artworks conservation. Estelle has been the leader of NEMO's working group for sustainability and climate action from 2023 to 2024.

At NEMO’s European Museum Conference 2025, Chryssa Bourbou, Estelle de Bruyn and Irene Mangion will facilitate the workshop "Eco-Anxiety: Museums as medi(t)ators of emotional resilience in the era of climate crisis" on Tuesday, 28 October.   

Workshop abstract: 

Eco-Anxiety: Museums as medi(t)ators of emotional resilience in the era of climate crisis 

The climate crisis is increasingly recognised as a threat to mental health and psychological wellbeing, and over the last years eco-anxiety has gained considerable attention, highlighting the emotional toll of environmental concerns. 

This workshop offers a space for practical engagement and open dialogue around these pressing issues. Participants will explore the nature and impact of eco-anxiety on individuals and audiences, and consider how museums can play a role in fostering emotional resilience while addressing climate-related topics. The session will also focus on developing strategies for curating exhibitions and programmes that not only confront environmental challenges but also inspire hope and meaningful action. 

The workshop is organised by the NEMO Working Group SAC! Sustainability and Climate Action, as well as facilitated by members of the working group.