Discover the people, projects, and ideas shaping the future of environmental research at the ECH – told through inspiring stories and insights.
Who would say no to innovation? But every promising innovation leaves environmental traces – some we expect, others surprise us decades later. Whether it’s nuclear waste, microplastics, or the residues of our ever-expanding data industry. A shift in perspective could help us rethink how we deal with innovation.
Contaminants in food - a topic that is rarely discussed without emotion. Between growing concerns about microplastics, pesticides, and so-called forever chemicals on the one hand, and increasingly differentiated scientific assessments on the other, there is room for many questions. How risky are residues really? What is measurable, what is noticeable, and what can be regulated, and how quickly?
Indoor climbing boosts fitness - but may come with an invisible risk. A new study reveals that air in bouldering gyms can contain high levels of rubber additives from climbing shoes - sometimes even higher than on busy roads. These chemicals, similar to those in car tires, can enter the lungs through abrasion. Researchers warn: it’s time to act before the full health impact becomes clear.
With €45,000 awarded through a competitive review, these interdisciplinary collaborations aim to spark innovative research and lead to joint publications and grant proposals. We congratulate our hub members and look forward to the discoveries ahead!
Current climate goals require the removal of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. However, how this should happen is up for debate. Researchers at the University of Vienna and the Potsdam Research Institute for Sustainability took a close look at the emission reduction plans of major EU industry sectors and found a substantial but underspecified reliance on uncertain carbon removal technologies.…
While mostly hidden, groundwater is of central importance to surface ecosystems and human society. Christian Griebler, researcher at the University of Vienna and ECH-member, recently contributed to a new global model of groundwater temperature that predicts the effects of climate change on this subterranean ecosystem.
Our research newsletter ‘ECHO’ provides you with the latest and most exciting information from the fields of environmental and climate research.
Dive into the latest insights, innovations, and stories shaping our environment and climate future. Follow the Environment and Climate Research Hub on social media for real-time updates, expert perspectives, and behind-the-scenes looks at groundbreaking research.
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