Environment and Climate Research Hub

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Tackling climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution demands collaboration across and beyond disciplines. The ECH provides essential knowledge, space for collaboration, and support for our shared future.

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Latest Stories

Regulatory Loopholes: How PFAS End Up in The Bloodstream – and in The Courtroom

ECHO Story
Parking lot with extinguishing foam and water on the ground, two fire trucks with lights on in the background near a fence and trees.
Created by Hanna Gabriel

PFAS, the so-called ‘forever chemicals’, are non-degradable and widespread in everyday products – despite their known health risks. As regulatory action often lags behind, civil lawsuits are playing an increasingly important role in addressing environmental toxins. An interdisciplinary approach reveals: lasting solutions will require cooperation between science, law, and policy.

When the lake turns salty: What Lake Vrana in Croatia reveals about Climate Change

Biodiversity and Ecosystems
Laka Vrana during Sunset.
Created by Lena Schmidlechner

Beneath the surface of Croatia’s largest natural lake, a silent transformation is underway. In a new study, researchers from the University of Vienna and the Ruđer Bošković Institute reveal that climate change is salinising Lake Vrana - threatening freshwater ecosystems and amplifying global climate risks. What looks like a holiday paradise may be a warning sign.

Looking at Nature Eases Physical Pain – Here’s Why

ECHO Story
Caregiver and senior woman in a wheelchair looking out the window at nature.
Created by Hanna Gabriel

Observing nature can help us feel less pain. Now, for the first time, brain scans confirm what we subjectively feel, and point to why our perception of pain might change. Surprisingly, even virtual nature distracts our attention away from processing pain at a basic neurophysiological level. The researchers hope that this will also draw attention to how important nature is for our health and why we…

MOOC Environmental Emergencies

A free interdisciplinary online course (MOOC) coordinated by the Environment and Climate Research Hub of the University of Vienna.

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