Freshwater ecosystems are the most endangered ecosystems worldwide. It is of great importance to understand how and why biodiversity in freshwaters is so massively changing. In Braunschweig, many years of comprehensive monitoring of water quality have resulted in a valuable dataset that is unique to the city and provides an excellent opportunity to deepen research on the promotion of urban aquatic biodiversity in particular under the influence of urban stressors, water management and the future challenges of climate change. This is of regional, national and international importance in view of the worldwide loss of aquatic biodiversity caused by urbanization and agriculture, as well as legal requirements such as the implementation of the European Water Framework Directive. This is especially true for the planning and development of urban aquatic habitats in the research focus "City of the Future" of the TU Braunschweig.
The research project is therefore intended, among other things, to continue to investigate and scientifically analyze the development of biodiversity in order to advance sustainable and viable water management concepts that counteract the consequences of climate change and integrate water, nature and species protection. The competence of young scientists is strengthened through the increased involvement of students in research and the sustainable integration of the topic in teaching. This is intended to meet the constantly growing demands for ecologically oriented water management and urban development and to consolidate and further expand the role of Braunschweig as a location in this field.
Duration: 01.01.2023-31.12.2027
Lead: Prof. Dr. Frank Suhling
Contact: Dr. Diana Goertzen
Funded by the Stadtentwässerung Braunschweig (SE|BS)
