Nature conservation goes online
Most people think nature conservation is important and want to get involved. But only a few of them support projects financially. With »AgoraNatura«, a team of scientists, nature conservationists and farmers pursue a new approach to get more people interested in financially supporting nature conservation: Via the online marketplace www.agora-natura.de people can now invest in certified conservation projects. A newly created, scientifically tested nature conservation standard, regional projects with verifiable impacts and a great emphasis on transparency make it easier for private individuals and companies to contribute to environmental protection.
Gone with the wind
Wind creates change, moves waves and clouds, and shapes entire landscapes. We are happy about a fresh sea breeze blowing on a hot day at the beach and children flying their kites. Wind can transport many things, from the tiniest speck of dust to a glider — and sometimes also »stowaways«. These include, for example, bacteria found in fertilizer and stirred up by tillage. A research team has now taken a closer look at the spread of antibiotic-resistant germs in agriculture.
Climate change on our doorstep
We have a pretty good idea of how the climate on our planet will change on average over the next few decades. Yet terms such as »global warming« and »two-degree target« offer farmers few clues as to what they specifically should prepare for, because locally the effects will differ, sometimes considerably. In order to be able to prepare for the future, farms need reliable local forecasts. Computer models are to make this possible.
The big difference
In order to provide food security for billions of people, farming is becoming increasingly intensive — with negative consequences for the environment and biodiversity. Conventional farming stands in contrast to organic farming, which follows stricter rules. Mineral nitrogen fertilizers and synthetic pesticides, for example, are prohibited here. A study investigated the impact of both concepts on the environment — with clear results.
Interview with Annette Piorr and Frank Ewert
Regional or global supply systems? - Will the corona pandemic change agriculture?
