Natural resources

DTU’s former rectors played major roles in the extraction of natural resources during Denmark’s industrialization. Former rectors Julius Thomsen (1883–1902) and his successor Gustav Hagemann (1902–1912) established an industry around the mineral cryolite in Greenland, which at the time was colonized by Denmark. In their era, Thomsen and Hagemann were celebrated as heroes who brought knowledge and prosperity to Denmark, and statues were erected in their honor at DTU, which was then located in Copenhagen.

Today, we have a more nuanced view and awareness of natural resources, colonial history, and our responsibility toward humans and the environment. The statue of Julius Thomsen stands on DTU’s Lyngby campus in front of DTU Sustain, where research is focused around natural resources. In this way, the statue invites reflection on where we come from and where we are headed.

The statue of Julius Thomsen is publicly accessible and stands in front of Building 118 in a bed of cryolite – see it as part of your visit to Complex Connections.