Environment and climate

Wageningen UR offers a unique range of expertise when it comes to nature and green space. We do research on water, nature, forests, environment, soil, landscape, climate, recreation and many other aspects that are important for the development and management of the living environment. Depending on the situation we work at local, national or international scale. The effects of climate change are a particular focus of our attention.

The maintenance, restoration and development of the quality of nature and the countryside are an important starting point for our research. We do much research on ways to extend the habitat of rare plant and animal breeds by linking up areas of nature. The maintenance of nature, forests and green space in rural and urban areas requires an integrated approach that considers ecological, economic and social aspects. That is why Wageningen UR uses the ‘delta approach’, a combination of the natural sciences, social sciences and the humanities. This is an ideal way to achieve integrated solutions for combining different spatial functions in rural areas.

Important research areas are water management, soil use and protection, recreation, tourism, land use and landscape development. We also do meticulous research on the behaviour of harmful substances in the environment. We make extensive use of models and geographical information systems (GIS). These enable us to analyse land-use and environmental problems that can occur at a local, regional, national or global scale.Multiple use of space and climate change are important areas of focus in our research. Wageningen UR also fulfils an important role as national coordinator for climate research.

We do much research on ways to reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane. Research on green raw materials as a substitute for their chemical equivalents can help to reduce CO2 emissions for example. The changes in our living climate that are expected to take place will also have a big effect on the way in which we organise spatial planning. Wageningen UR has a unique combination of knowledge and expertise available to examine and manage these changes, thus contributing to the quality of life.

>> more about chair groups of Environmental Sciences

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