LIESBETH VAN TONGEREN
Liesbeth van Tongeren studied Law at the VU University in Amsterdam and International Law at the University of Amsterdam between 1976 and 1983. Then she moved to Australia where she served as a director of organisations that seek to assist the homeless and refugees. She also set up shelters for abused women and centres for peaceful conflict resolution.
On her return to the Netherlands Liesbeth worked for the province of North Holland and the municipality of Amsterdam. She then served as the director of a women's shelter and a social security office in Purmerend. In 2003 Liesbeth took on the role of Director of the Dutch branch of Greenpeace. She was recognised for her work at Greenpeace with a mention in the ‘Sustainable 100’ list published in the Dutch newspaper Trouw. On 17 June 2010 Liesbeth was elected as a member of parliament for the Dutch Green Left party and is currently focusing on climate, energy and environmental issues.
Photo of Liesbeth van Tongeren
Click here to download a high-res JPG of Liesbeth van Tongeren
A minute with a juror
2009 finalists
- Sanne Castro:
SimGas - Robin Chase:
Open Road - Dean Gregory: Power Collective Limited
- Michael Mathres: Mootral
- Robert Matthams: Shiply.com
- Hjalmar van Raemdonck: Ephicas SideWing
One bright idea can make a big difference. The entrant with the best idea for a greenhouse-gas-reducing product or service will win €500,000, expert coaching and a starting list of customers! Read all about it »
How to win
Think you're too young to enter this contest? You lack a track record as an inventor? Or your idea's too wacky to fly? Read this »
We'd like to share a few great ideas that are already making a difference in the world. These ideas inspired us - maybe they'll inspire you too, and expand your mind and imagination.
"I'm pleased that the Dutch Postcode Lottery has launched the Green Challenge to encourage entrepreneurs to develop new ways to fight one of the most pressing issues of our time: climate change." Read more »
