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Networking is the bread and butter of research. Our research findings on environmental protection and protecting the public against environmental toxins are available free of charge in our publications, which comprise final reports on our own research, as well as overviews of our findings in various white papers and specialized brochures. And if you’re in search of grist for your own research mill, then be sure to visit our Data area and/or our environmental library. Our Umweltforschungsdatenbank (environmental data research database) enables you to see at a glance texts about environmental research in German speaking countries. And if you have a yen to join the UBA research community, then feel free to apply for one of our research projects.

750 experts discuss new PFAS research and strategies

On 30.11. and 1.12.2020 the conference „PFAS - Dealing with contaminants of emerging concern“ took place. Experts from Europe and around the world exchanged views online on how to deal with environmental pollution caused by poly- and perfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS). Because of their unique properties, these more than 5,000 substances are used in a wide variety of products. read more

EU climate targets: 60 percent reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 is possible, German Environment Agency says

The German Environment Agency (UBA) believes it is possible to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the EU by at least 60 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. A key element in this is a rapid reform of EU emissions trading. read more

Increasing the recycling of precious and minor metals

Board of a processor, on it a recycling symbol

To increase recycling of precious and minor metals, a German Environment Agency study concludes that dismantling and recycling obligations plus information obligations for WEEE and motors with neodymium magnets and end-of-life vehicle electronics may be appropriate. It also recommends consolidation workshops and adjustments to legislation regarding the long-term interim storage of minor metals. read more

Coronavirus protection in schools: Airing rooms for five minutes, every 20 minutes

The German Environment Agency (UBA) has drafted some helpful guidance for the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs of the Länder in Germany (KMK) on proper airing practices in schools. The handbook reflects the UBA experts' recommendations on indoor air hygiene and how proper ventilation in schools can reduce the risk of infection with the novel coronavirus. read more

Schulze: "Human biomonitoring should become an instrument of European chemicals policy"

Eine behandschuhte Hand stellt ein Reagenzglas mit einer Blutprobe in eine Reagenzglashalterung, in der bereits weitere Blutproben stehen.

At an international conference on "Human Biomonitoring for science and chemical policy", Federal Environment Minister Svenja Schulze and UBA President Dirk Messner spoke out in favour of expanding human biomonitoring at European level. This involves examining population groups for their exposure to environmental pollutants and other sources. read more

Database presents German initiatives on UN sustainability goal 12

In 2015, the United Nations adopted 17 goals for worldwide socially, ecologically and economically sustainable development (Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs). The SDG 12 database shows which developments have taken place in Germany since then with regard to Goal 12 "Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns". It currently comprises more than 120 activities. read more

Ambitious environmental protection benefits health and well-being

Air pollution, noise, climate change, chemicals – Environmental problems are a burden on human health. An intact environment can have a positive influence on health and well-being. Urban green spaces are a good example. A recent report by the European Environment Agency (EEA) describes successes for environment and health as well as challenges that face Europe today. read more

Pesticides in Europe's waters – data assessment

Pesticides can cause damage to the environment. A project coordinated by the German Environment Agency for the European Environment Agency provides the first overview of pesticides in rivers. lakes and groundwater reported by EU Member States. The report confirms that additional measures are necessary to ensure compliance with environmental quality standards in waters. read more