Call for Papers
EXTRACTIVE NATURES / NATURES OF EXTRACTION
In times of an expanding extractive industry with the deep sea to be harvested of its nodules and fertile soil to be moved for the mining of the bedrock, there is a growing societal attention to these extractive industries and their long-lasting impacts on the local landscapes. Recent research has pushed for a greater attention to the environmental histories of extractive industries and their impact on places and people. However, these tend to remain focused on and limited to cases of mineral extraction and mining. But is it possible to think about extractivism beyond resource extraction and minerals? What kind of actors and agencies would need to be considered? How would this change our understanding or definition of extraction? And does the end of extractives industries in a place also mean the end of extractive practices and processes?
This workshop aims to bring together scholars, artists, and practitioners working on extraction and extractive practices. In particular papers which address the broad theme of extraction from any place, time, and disciplinary or methodological vantage point within the environmental humanities are welcome. Potential themes include but are not limited to:
- environmental perspectives on places of extraction,
- more-than-human histories of extraction,
- methodological reflections and approaches to studying extractive practices,
- extraction of and other than mineral and organic materials.
To propose a paper, please send an abstract of 300 words and a brief biography in a single pdf to Melina Antonia Buns (melina.a.buns@uis.no) by 10 September 2025.
For the workshop, 20-minute presentations will be expected, but other forms and modes are welcome and encouraged, too. The workshop will take place in person in Bristol, United Kingdom. Accommodation (2 nights for about 15 external guests) and meals during the workshop will be covered. Participants must, however, arrange their own travel to and from Bristol. For planning purposes, please indicate whether you need accommodation when you send your proposal.
Questions can be directed at Melina Antonia Buns (melina.a.buns@uis.no).