bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Fortschritte” in merkantilistischer Wirtschaftspolitik – Strategien gegen eine Ökologisierung der Wirtschaft
Authors: Minsch Jürg
Published: March 2017

Today's economy is ecologically immature! It allows for ecological threats that endanger the very existence of life. At the root lies a defect of social perception, a “consent against nature”. Its two most important elements are: (1) a law of causation which
renders perception of ecological problems difficult, and (2) a notion of risk which reduces, that is to say distorts, the perception of large ecological dangers. The “consent against nature” leads on the one hand to a virtual castration of environmental policy and relieves
on the other hand economic policy of its ecological responsibility. The result is an environmentally harmful policy. In the face of the complexity of present ecological dangers, environmental policy is bound to fail. At the very bottom of today's economic policy lies a mercantilistic strategy
– contradictory to a free market economy – to reduce the prices of strategic resources. Its main fields of application are energy, traffic, waste disposal, and major industrial risks. An ecologically mature economy requires an overcoming of the “consent against nature”
and the integration of environmental policy with economic policy. – This paper proposes a new consent between nature and economy and the main fulcrums of an ecological economic policy.
Mikrobielle Umwandlungen polychlorierter Biphenyle (PCBs)
Authors: Kohler Hans-Peter E. , Kohler-Staub Doris , Alder Alfredo C.
Published: March 2017

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are industrial chemicals which have been identified as contaminants in almost every compartment of the global ecosystem. Due to their chemical nature, PCBs tend to enter and bioaccumulate in the food chain/web. In nature, microbial transformation
reactions with PCBs occur both, in aerobic and anaerobic environments, but at exceedingly small rates, such that natural degradation may be fully toxicologically significant only over geological times. Laboratory studies have shown that in aerobic environments PCBs are mainly transformed
by biphenyl oxidizing enzymes with relaxed specificity. In this process the chlorine content of the molecules is generally not reduced. In contrast, under anaerobic conditions PCBs are reductively dechlorinated at the meta- and para-positions with accumulation of ortho-substituted
chlorobiphenyls. Recent advances in research concerning biotransformation of PCBs and genetics of PCB-transforming organisms has lead to the opinion that the potential of microorganisms for decontaminating PCB-containing sites should be further investigated and appropriate techniques,
especially combinations of anaerobic and aerobic processes, should be developed. Future research will have to show, whether microbially mediated processes can help to deal with the global environmental PCB contamination.
Natur in der Krise? Ein kulturelles Mißverständnis
Authors: Glaeser Bernhard
Published: March 2017

Is the so-called environmental crisis actually a cultural crisis? Is the “environmental crisis”, therefore, an “ideological crisis” and, in this sense, a crisis of our culture? What is the essence of the link between environment and nature, the interdependence
between nature and culture, upon which our sense of “crisis” is based? The reflections presented in this article attempt to answer these questions. The thesis is developed that there is no “crisis in nature”. It is contended that talk of “crisis in nature”
is, contrary to what we may believe, far more an indication of a cultural crisis in our society. Nevertheless, humankind's intuitive, that is anthropocentric, self-interest in its own survival demands that societal behaviour with regard to nature be changed, that Homo sapiens treat
nature with care. The conclusion here – ironically – is that correct behaviour towards nature need not necessarily be based upon false thinking about nature.
Gentechnologie im gesellschaftlichen Spannungsfeld: Züchtung transgener Kulturpflanzen
Authors: Altmann Michael , Ammann Klaus
Published: March 2017

Transgenic crop plants are introduced into the environment at an increasing rate. To avoid undesired events we need more information on ecological risk factors like the dissemination of transgenic properties to weedy species and on the mechanisms of horizontal gene flow. We also have
to assess the impact of genetic engineering on society; as an example problems with patenting procedures are discussed from different points of view. Questions concerning the risk and the impact on social and economic systems should be addressed by scientists who are aware of methodological
and paradigmatic bias; truly interdisciplinary collaboration between holists and reductionists is required.
“Sustainable Development”: Nachhaltiges Wirtschaften in Markt und Demokratie
Authors: Noppeney Claus , Rüling Charles-Clemens
Published: March 2017

Für manche gleichsam “der Stein der Weisen” oder doch soviel wie ein “Prüfstein für Langzeitverantwortung”, in jedem Fall ein facettenreiches, verheißungsvolles Thema:
Die Notwendigkeit einer nachhaltigkeitsfähigen Demokratie
Authors: Kloepfer Michael
Published: March 2017

The irreversibility, be it on the whole or in parts, of complex political decisions (for example in the field of environmental pollution, the amount of state indebtedness or the conclusion of international treaties) makes it necessary to strive for responsible behaviour for large periods
of time. Unfortunately, the holder of so-called “long-term”- or “future responsibility” – that is to say all persons, who are directly involved in the governmental decision-making process – do take their responsibility in inadequate manner. The reason
for this may especially be found in the fact, that the German constitution provides for discontinuity between the parliamentary terms which may lead to a certain way of “thinking in legislative periods” (structural antagonism between short-term legitimation and long-term responsibility).
There is a constitutional obligation for the protection of forthcoming generations, especially by means of the protection of life and health. Nevertheless, at present there is no comprehensive claim of every citizen on the state to have forthcoming generations protected by legal means.
In order to solve the above mentioned problems the following proposals are made, which might be appropriate to take into account the interests of forthcoming generations: • Partial modification of democratic structures; it seems that constitutional limits are rather narrow and therefore
changes will not be very effective. • Stricter recourse to non-legal measures as for instance spreading of information in order to change the social self-awareness. • Intrastructural network to improve the principle of cooperation; comparable with the principle of cooperation
as known in the field of environmental protection, successful by consistent translation. • Institutional reception of the “long-term responsibility”; measures of this kind might be especially successful, as for example: – Organizations or Federations for the
protection of forthcoming generations, – Agent for the protection of forthcoming generations, – Council of Experts for future questions, – Department of the protection of forthcoming generations.
Ressourcen der Tiefsee: “Erbschaft” und Verantwortung der Menschheit
Authors: Thiel Hjalmar
Published: March 2017

The exploitation of deep-sea mineral resources was first proposed almost three decades ago. Several ore types have been discovered and some have been investigated for their commercial exploitation. From the outset, the need for environmental risk assessments has been realized
and a number of specific studies have been conducted to determine the likely severeness of impacts from commercial mining. Two factors, the generally infavourable level of world metal prices and the formulation of Part XI of the Law of the Sea (signed in 1982), have both militated against
future developments of deep-sea mining and its associated technology. The more important results of earlier environmental impact studies point to the fact that, in order to properly assess the consequences of large-scale ocean disturbances, investigations must be conducted on large areal
and long-time scales. Currently, this new approach is applied in studies on faunal recolonization following large-scale, experimental disturbances of the deep-sea floor. However, many other predicted impacts from deep-sea mining need to be investigated before such mining may commence after
the coming decades. Most important in future studies will be the careful monitoring of an industrial endurance test (Pilot Mining Operation) of several months. The high level of funding and of oceanographic expertise required to sustain such an extended research project demand international
collaboration and cost sharing. The concept of the deep-sea as “common heritage of mankind”, – and this specifically in respect to the exploitation of deep-sea resources – as it had been proposed by Arvid Pardo in 1967 and adopted by the United Nations in 1970 in view
of the developing countries' interest, should be extended by the statement that the health of the ocean is the “responsibility of mankind”.
Steady-State Economics: Concepts, Questions, Policies
Authors: Daly Herman E.
Published: March 2017

Why should the focus of investment shift from man-made capital to natural capital? How do we invest in something that by definition we are unable to make? Are man-made and natural capital complements or are they substitutes? This paper consists of three parts: First is a discussion
of the pre-analytic vision or paradigm of steady-state economics, along with its basic magnitudes, idea of efficiency, and relations to the traditional concepts of income and capital. Second are some analytical questions that are immediately suggested by the steady-state vision. Third
is a discussion of some policy issues of moving toward a steady-state economy.
Weshalb “Öko-Kühlschrank”? FCKW-, Energie- und Entsorgungsproblematik
Authors: Hofstetter Patrick
Published: March 2017

Household refrigerators cover 18 per cent of the total electricity consumption for households in Switzerland and contribute worldwide in a large extent to ozone depletion and global warming. Energy balances, global warming assessments, and life-cycle analysis for refrigerators indicate
the big relevance of chlorofluorocarbons (CFC) use in foams and coolants and the electricity use. Some projects on super energy-efficient refrigerators and the German CFC-free “green freeze” are presented. By reason of lack of a refrigerator with a very low energy use, free
from CFC and related substances, with a high lifetime, good possibilities for maintenance and recycling, and clean production concept a Swiss “eco-refrigerator project” has been started. A short outline is given of this ambitious project.
Erfassung des Landschaftswandels in alpinen Regionen – Fernerkundung als Hilfsmittel für die Entscheidungsfindung in der Tourismusplanung
Authors: Zurflüh Marcel , Huggel Christian , Brander Dominic , Bodmer Hans-Caspar
Published: March 2017

In many alpine regions tourism is a driving force in the environmental development and influences landscape in various ways. Only few changes in landscape are known in detail, and moreover, people and responsible authorities involved in planning often are unaware of these changes, since
the processes involved are, as a rule, very slow.This study aims to exploit the potential of high-resolution remote sensing data to monitor environmental changes related to tourism development. In two test areas in the Swiss Alps with different tourism impact, changes in landscape were
analysed over a period of more than 100 years. Temporal sequences of aerial photographs were mosaicked and classified according to feature classes relevant to changes in landscape. For the period before 1940, historical maps were digitized. All data was introduced into a geo-information system
(GIS) where landscape changes were analysed specifically. In doing so, a main focus was set on changes in forest cover and forest habitat in relation to construction activities. The results showed a massive impact of tourism industry on landscape in one of the test sites.
Wozu Umweltforschung? – Über das Spannungsverhältnis zwischen Forschungstraditionen und umweltpolitischen Leitbildern Teil I: Das Beispiel "Ökologische Chemie"
Authors: Scheringer Martin , Böschen Stefan , Jaeger Jochen
Published: March 2017

We investigate the kinds of questions asked by environmental scientists. To this end, we describe the orientation of scientific research by posing four questions: What is the lack of knowledge to be addressed by the research? What is the purpose of the results? What are the subjects
the research is dealing with? What are the methods chosen for the investigation? We propose that problem-oriented environmental science should strive to find answers to these questions that are different from those offered by "classical" natural sciences. As a focus of our study, we select
four fields where the answers to the orienting questions are relevant: (1) reflexivity and "reflexive science" (Ulrich Beck), (2) dealing with uncertainty and missing knowledge, (3) competing internal scientific goals and external orientations such as sustainability, (4) the relationship between
environmental sciences and politics. As a case study, we investigate the historical development of ecological chemistry. This development can be divided into three phases: an initial phase, an independent phase, and a re-orientation phase. Different internal and external orientations governed
the scientific research in these three phases. This example provides insight into the problem of competing internal and external orientations; as a possible solution, we propose a scientific orientation open to societal concerns (to be continued in a follow-up paper).
Zusammenhang zwischen der Verschärfung des Hochwasserrisikos in Südwestdeutschland seit Mitte der siebziger Jahre und einem veränderten Winterklima
Authors: Caspary Hans J.
Published: March 2017

The time series of annual peak discharges of the Enz River Basin/Black Forest (A = 1 477 km2), the upper Danube (A = 1 320 km2), the Nahe River Basin (A = 2 382 km2), and the Moselle River (A = 27 088 km2) in Southwest Germany are showing
significant increasing trends. The reason for this non-stationarity is a significant increase in winter precipitation, which itself is caused by a dramatic increase in frequency and persistence of zonal atmospheric circulations across Europe during the winter months (December–February).
During the observation period (1926–2000), nearly all extreme floods including the floods of February 1990, December 1993, January 1995, February 1997, and October 1998 for all four basins were caused by the zonal circulation type "West cyclonic" (Wz) during winter. Non-parametric
tests show that non-stationarity starts, for the winter-Wz frequencies, in 1973, and for the annual peak flows of the Enz River, the Nahe River, and the upper Danube Basin, in the period of 1976–1977. It is demonstrated that this leads to an increased flood risk for the four river basins.
The non-stationarity of the peak discharges does not concern all Germany, but for large areas of Southwest Germany the increased flood risk is a very serious regional problem. The extreme flood events of the last three decades in these four river basins are attributed to the changed winter
climate.
Die Gaia-Hypothese im Lichte der Erdsystemforschung
Authors: Franck Siegfried
Published: March 2017

The Gaia hypothesis postulates that the linked system of geo- and biosphere over long periods respond to external forcing in such a way that favourable conditions for life on earth are created or maintained. Within the scope of earth system analysis, it is shown that the life span of
a globally acting biosphere only extends to about 500 million years from now.
Vorsorge als Prinzip: Besser in der Vorsicht irren als im Wagemut
Authors: Renn Ortwin
Published: March 2017

The precautionary principle is currently mentioned in almost all relevant environmental legislations. However, a clear and consistent concept for implementation is still lacking. In order to prevent arbitrary interpretation, the author advocates a differentiation between precautionary
'strategies in risk appraisal and precautionary assessment in risk management.
Ökologische Steuerreform Der Winderstand gegen die Veränderung
Authors: Kohlhaas Michael
Published: March 2017

There is a growing consensus among economists that an Ecological Tax Reform is suitable to reduce emission and increase employment in Germany – and on top of that in the European Union – at the same time. Nevertheless, the practical implementation has been and remains difficult.
This article focuses on distributive conflicts and the aversion to change a major causes.
Vom Auto zum Autobus: Der Umzug als Einstieg zum Umstieg
Authors: Rölle Daniel , Weber Christoph , Bamberg Sebastian
Published: March 2017

Mobility behaviour appears to be a rather stable factor of individual behaviour. However, our hypothesis is routine patterns of behaviour are prone to be restructured after moving to a new city. After moving, people have to decide which means of transportation to use for different purposes
(e.g. work, Shopping or leisure trips). In an experimental study consisting of a panel survey of persons who moved to the region of Stuttgart, we empirically evaluated the behavioural effectiveness of the "soft-policy" measures, "info-package" and "free ticket". The evaluation showed these
measures had a significant impact on the means of transportation chosen, even in the longer run. Obviously this intervention can be helpful to promote sustainable mobility behaviour.
Der umwelthistorische Beitrag zur Diskussion um nachhaltige Agrar-Entwicklung
Authors: Winiwarter Verena
Published: March 2017

Agro-ecological history, the environmental history of agricultural systems, can offer a long-term perspective for the discussion on sustainability. By integrating data on population dynamics, the development of the production system and the flows and interdependencies within the agro-ecological
system, an interdisciplinary perspective can be generated Models prove a valuable tool for such an undertaking. Four central categories are discussed: Yield, soil fertility, productivity and intensification. While well-defined categories are a prerequisite for any such study, especially new
research of the soil sciences on soil fertility needs to be incorporated into historical research. Examples from empirical studies on Austrian villages are used to elaborate the importance of the categories and try to make a case in point for the use of the agro-ecological approach. In a final
chapter, the role of such combined histories in sustainable regional development is highlighted. History is always a powerful agent of identity, and ecological-place-based local identities could prove a tool for planners and concerned regional authorities.
Kultivierung der Nachhaltigkeit – Ein neuer Weg zu nachhaltigem Konsum?
Authors: Reisch Lucia A.
Published: March 2017

"The cultivation of sustainability" is a call for a more systematic integration of the variable "culture" within the current sustainability discourse. Since consumption styles and patterns are deeply embedded within (sub)cultural frameworks, such an integration is especially relevant
for studying sustainable consumption. Three discourses are differentiated: Firstly, the discourse on the epistemological-conceptual integration of culture in the concept of sustainable development; secondly, the question of the contents of a "culture of sustainability" and possible ways towards
such a culture; thirdly, the question of the specific contribution of "the arts" in promoting a more sustainable society. Proposing and discussing a "prism"-model of sustainable development, the article focuses on the first discourse. It also touches upon barriers and potentials for a "cultivation
of consumption" as a way towards sustainable consumption.
Schwellenwerte der Landschaftszerschneidung Schwellenwerte der Landschaftszerschneidung
Authors: Jaeger Jochen , Holderegger Rolf
Published: March 2017

Landscape fragmentation adversely affects wildlife populations by reducing the amount and quality of habitat, increasing the number and strength of barriers to movement, enhancing mortality due to collisions with vehicles, and breaking up the remaining habitat into smaller pieces. All
four mechanisms exhibit critical thresholds, below which the population is prone to a much higher risk of extinction. However, empirical determination of these thresholds in real landscapes (e.g., by using molecular-genetic methods) is very difficult due to long time lags in population reactions
("extinction debt"), and due to many confounding ecological variables. As a consequence, better policies, decisionmaking procedures, and planning tools are needed that are based on the precautionary principle and on prospective simulation models, e.g., quantitative environmental standards
limiting the degree of landscape fragmentation and precautionary assessment criteria. Landscape fragmentation adversely affects wildlife populations by reducing the amount and quality of habitat, increasing the number and strength of barriers to movement, enhancing mortality due to collisions
with vehicles, and breaking up the remaining habitat into smaller pieces. All four mechanisms exhibit critical thresholds, below which the population is prone to a much higher risk of extinction. However, empirical determination of these thresholds in real landscapes (e.g., by using molecular-genetic
methods) is very difficult due to long time lags in population reactions ("extinction debt"), and due to many confounding ecological variables. As a consequence, better policies, decisionmaking procedures, and planning tools are needed that are based on the precautionary principle and on prospective
simulation models, e.g., quantitative environmental standards limiting the degree of landscape fragmentation and precautionary assessment criteria.
Schnittachsen oder Verbundlinien? Energiefreileitungen in der Landschaft Schnittachsen oder Verbundlinien? Energiefreileitungen in der Landschaft
Authors: Coch Thomas , Gerhards Ivo , Konold Werner
Published: March 2017

Today's electricity supply is strictly based on power lines. In order to reduce the fragmentation effects of power lines on scenic beauty, we propose a) a quantitative method using digital high resolution models of elevation to optimize the placement of the pylons and b) an expert evaluation
model using landscape identity as the main criterion to assess and reduce negative aesthetic impacts. On the other hand, power lines may be aesthetically integrated into landscapes exhibiting a high structural diversity. Ecological fragmentation effects of power lines on ecosystems and animal
and plant populations are twofold: Firstly, bird collisions with the power line reduce population sizes. Secondly, habitats and ecosystems are interrupted by the crossing routes of power lines. However, these routes may become valuable connecting elements in the landscape, if biotope management
plans properly address the site-specific potentials and account for the prevailing processes of landscape change. Bird collisions cannot be prevented, but can be reduced by conductor-marking. Today's electricity supply is strictly based on power lines. In order to reduce the fragmentation
effects of power lines on scenic beauty, we propose a) a quantitative method using digital high resolution models of elevation to optimize the placement of the pylons and b) an expert evaluation model using landscape identity as the main criterion to assess and reduce negative aesthetic impacts.
On the other hand, power lines may be aesthetically integrated into landscapes exhibiting a high structural diversity. Ecological fragmentation effects of power lines on ecosystems and animal and plant populations are twofold: Firstly, bird collisions with the power line reduce population
sizes. Secondly, habitats and ecosystems are interrupted by the crossing routes of power lines. However, these routes may become valuable connecting elements in the landscape, if biotope management plans properly address the site-specific potentials and account for the prevailing processes
of landscape change. Bird collisions cannot be prevented, but can be reduced by conductor-marking.
Schweizer Wildtierkorridore auf dem Papier, in den Köpfen und in der Landschaft Schweizer Wildtierkorridore auf dem Papier, in den Köpfen und in der Landschaft
Authors: Holzgang Otto , Righetti Antonio , Pfister Hans Peter
Published: March 2017

Traffic and its associated infrastructure have a negative impact on wildlife, due to road casualties and habitat fragmentation. In 2001, a study on landscape fragmentation in Switzerland proposed a network of wildlife corridors and located the sites most affected by fragmentation. To
ensure exchange between wildlife populations, measures were proposed for maintaining and restoring wildlife corridors. The results were incorporated or used in a ministerial guideline, in a decision of the federal court, in the national ecological network and the master plans of two-thirds
of the Swiss cantons. These actions ensure consideration of the corridors in environmental impact assessments and governmental planning. A federal restoration plan was started in 2002 for 51 wildlife corridors that are interrupted and require fauna passages to be restored. Since pressure on
wildlife corridors resulting from infrastructure projects and urbanisation will continue, we propose to re-evaluate all wildlife corridors and appropriate measures in 2010. Traffic and its associated infrastructure have a negative impact on wildlife, due to road casualties and habitat
fragmentation. In 2001, a study on landscape fragmentation in Switzerland proposed a network of wildlife corridors and located the sites most affected by fragmentation. To ensure exchange between wildlife populations, measures were proposed for maintaining and restoring wildlife corridors.
The results were incorporated or used in a ministerial guideline, in a decision of the federal court, in the national ecological network and the master plans of two-thirds of the Swiss cantons. These actions ensure consideration of the corridors in environmental impact assessments and governmental
planning. A federal restoration plan was started in 2002 for 51 wildlife corridors that are interrupted and require fauna passages to be restored. Since pressure on wildlife corridors resulting from infrastructure projects and urbanisation will continue, we propose to re-evaluate all wildlife
corridors and appropriate measures in 2010.
Increasing Permeability of the Czech Road Network for Large Mammals
Authors: Hlaváč Václav
Published: March 2017

The total length of motorways in the Czech Republic is expected to double within 20 years. A project run by the Agency of Nature Conservation and Landscape Protection of the Czech Republic evaluated the permeability of the current motorway network for large and medium-sized mammals.
The method used is transferable to other countries. The project made recommendations for making critical motorway sections permeable by proposing minimum parameters, optimal locations and distances between wildlife passages on existing roads, and recommendations for building new roads. These
recommendations were summarised in the handbook On the Permeability of Roads for Wildlife, which the Ministry of the Environment officially recommended for new motorways in the Czech Republic. A monitoring programme to evaluate the influence of traffic on wildlife populations and the
effectiveness of mitigation measures is planned. High attention must be paid to the legal status of habitat fragmentation and to international legal harmonisation to facilitate cross-border cooperation.
Target Orientation for Ecologically Sound Road Management in Sweden
Authors: Seiler Andreas , Sjölund Anders
Published: March 2017

Target orientation in road management allows consideration of non-monetary landscape values that have been largely ignored due to lack of assessment tools and insufficient knowledge. We discuss shortcomings in traditional road planning and describe the new Swedish target-oriented approach
to integrate natural and socio-cultural assets in road management. The approach is based on tangible environmental targets and criteria that can be enforced.We emphasize the advantages of the new approach and conclude that target orientation helps to integrate environmental impact assessment
into the planning and performance control system. It enhances landscape-ecological concern among planners and strengthens the dialogue between engineers and environmentalists. Target orientation requires an elaborate monitoring system that has roots in a profound ecological understanding.
In order to monitor performance and to validate measures mitigating negative effects of landscape fragmentation, further methodological development and applied ecological research are necessary.
Umweltindikator Landschaftszerschneidung: Ein zentrales Element zur Verknüpfung von Wissenschaft und Politik Umweltindikator Landschaftszerschneidung: Ein zentrales Element zur Verknüpfung von Wissenschaft und Politik
Authors: Schupp Doris
Published: March 2017

Like other persistent environmental problems, landscape fragmentation is a typical creeping process not yet widely perceived by the public. In recent years environmental indicators have been established as a new instrument of governance in order to display the most important trends
by a manageable set of data. The German Conference of Ministers of the Environment recently decided on a set of 24 environmental indicators, including landscape fragmentation. The landscape fragmentation indicator involves a standardised measurement and communication of the problem. In this
paper, the development of the indicator at the interface of science and politics is described and discussed. The indicator is an important step towards both an appropriate perception of landscape fragmentation and the development of strategic solutions. Like other persistent environmental
problems, landscape fragmentation is a typical creeping process not yet widely perceived by the public. In recent years environmental indicators have been established as a new instrument of governance in order to display the most important trends by a manageable set of data. The German Conference
of Ministers of the Environment recently decided on a set of 24 environmental indicators, including landscape fragmentation. The landscape fragmentation indicator involves a standardised measurement and communication of the problem. In this paper, the development of the indicator at the interface
of science and politics is described and discussed. The indicator is an important step towards both an appropriate perception of landscape fragmentation and the development of strategic solutions.
Die Halbtagsgesellschaft – ein Konzept für nachhaltigere Produktions- und Konsummuster Die Halbtagsgesellschaft – ein Konzept für nachhaltigere Produktions- und Konsummuster
Authors: Schaffer Axel , Stahmer Carsten
Published: March 2017

Achieving a sustainable development involves many challenges. For Germany, this is true for ecological as well as social and economic aspects of development. Unemployment, an ageing society, national budget deficits, and environmental concerns are significant problems that can hardly
be solved by traditional concepts alone. This study introduces a socio-economic input-output model focused on human activity patterns. Time use, monetary value, and CO2 emissions generated by the production and consumption of goods and services relating to these activities are analyzed
for three age groups (i.e. youth, adults, senior citizens). Not only paid work, but also non-paid activities such as household chores, care for children and elderly people, and community services are taken into consideration.Based on the time patterns, monetary values, and CO2
emissions in Germany 1998, the paper presents the concept of a part-time society characterized by a reduction of paid work time and an increase in social engagement. Initial model results suggest that production and consumption patterns of the part-time society fulfil the criteria of sustainable
development for the social, ecological, and economic dimensions as specified by the Agenda 21.
SAGUF: Die Zukunft der Umweltforschung gestalten – Wissenschaftspolitische Thesen der SAGUF SAGUF: Die Zukunft der Umweltforschung gestalten – Wissenschaftspolitische Thesen der SAGUF
Authors: Hadorn Gertrude Hirsch , Roux Michel , Kooijman Cornelis
Published: March 2017

Umweltforschung, die aufklärt und Handlungsmöglichkeiten für eine nachhaltige Entwicklung aufzeigt, ist eine verantwortungsbewußte Investition in die Zukunft. Doch die Schweizer Umweltforschung stagniert auf hohem Niveau. Die SAGUF sieht hier Handlungsbedarf. Umweltforschung,
die aufklärt und Handlungsmöglichkeiten für eine nachhaltige Entwicklung aufzeigt, ist eine verantwortungsbewußte Investition in die Zukunft. Doch die Schweizer Umweltforschung stagniert auf hohem Niveau. Die SAGUF sieht hier Handlungsbedarf.
Abundant Fish Stocks, Thriving Communities, Healthy Seas – An Attainable Goal?
Authors: Squires Heather
Published: March 2017

The health of the world's fish stocks is a global concern. And while many fish stocks are in decline, the story with particular stocks in any particular region is unique. Within Europe, fisheries are managed through the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). Recent CFP reforms recognise that
a decentralised mechanism for inputting advice is essential to successful management, and the new Regional Advisory Councils (RACs) will assist with this. In England's southwest, an innovative process is underway to complement the RACs and to ensure that local realities are brought forward
through a spirit of cooperation. This process is Invest in Fish South West.
Nachhaltigkeit und Auto-Mobilität Nachhaltigkeit und Auto-Mobilität
Authors: Henseling Karl Otto
Published: March 2017

Immer größere und schwerere Autos liegen im Trend – und verbrauchen zunehmend knappe Ressourcen. Der Straßenverkehr ist wesentlich dafür verantwortlich, daß Deutschland seine Kohlendioxidemissionen voraussichtlich nicht wie zugesagt reduzieren kann.
Generell ist die Nichtnachhaltigkeit der automobilen Fortbewegung eine wenig beachtete Tatsache. Das liegt einerseits daran, daß es an geeigneten Modellen zur Vermittlung des Problems fehlt. Andererseits ist das Auto als positionelles Gut für Aufrüstungen unbegrenzt offen.
Umwelt wie Autoindustrie könnten profitieren, wenn innovative, ressourcenschonende und verbrauchsarme Fahrzeuge aus der ökologischen Nische geholt und offensiv vermarktet würden. Immer größere und schwerere Autos liegen im Trend – und verbrauchen zunehmend
knappe Ressourcen. Der Straßenverkehr ist wesentlich dafür verantwortlich, daß Deutschland seine Kohlendioxidemissionen voraussichtlich nicht wie zugesagt reduzieren kann. Generell ist die Nichtnachhaltigkeit der automobilen Fortbewegung eine wenig beachtete Tatsache. Das
liegt einerseits daran, daß es an geeigneten Modellen zur Vermittlung des Problems fehlt. Andererseits ist das Auto als positionelles Gut für Aufrüstungen unbegrenzt offen. Umwelt wie Autoindustrie könnten profitieren, wenn innovative, ressourcenschonende und verbrauchsarme
Fahrzeuge aus der ökologischen Nische geholt und offensiv vermarktet würden.
Von der naturwissenschaftlichen Umweltforschung zur Nachhaltigkeitswissenschaft? Von der naturwissenschaftlichen Umweltforschung zur Nachhaltigkeitswissenschaft?
Authors: Daschkeit Achim
Published: March 2017

Environmental science deals with phenomena in nature caused by human influence. Thus, its objects have material as well as symbolic aspects. Besides, problem oriented research has two main objectives: On the one hand practicing normal science, which is focused on the development in
specific scientific disciplines, and, on the other hand, the more or less active involvement in social processes. Thus, its objects have descriptive as well as normative elements. With the help of three examples from environmental research (i.e. ecosystem research, climate impact research,
and integrated coastal zone management), it is pointed out that modern environmental research (e.g. socioecological research), within the context of a transdisciplinary sustainability science, analyses such twofold hybrid objects of investigations with a high degree of normativity. As a result,
an evaluation of this kind of research has to be oriented on criteria from inside and outside of science.
Nachwachsend = nachhaltig? Eine Analyse am Beispiel pflanzlicher Textilfärbung Nachwachsend = nachhaltig? Eine Analyse am Beispiel pflanzlicher Textilfärbung
Authors: Geissler Susanne , Mussak Rita , Bechtold Thomas , Klug Siegrun , Vogel-Lahner Theresia
Published: March 2017

In general, the utilisation of renewable resources is regarded as a contribution to sustainable development due to its reduction of environmental burdens and its support of regional development. In this paper we argue that a true contribution to sustainable development can be achieved
only by considering the following additional sustainability criteria during product development: service and user orientation, efficiency, recyclability, flexibility and adaptability, fault-tolerance and risk prevention, employment, income and quality of life. From the discussion of these
criteria, three key factors are derived: 1. development of quality products; 2. efficient resource use and reduction of environmental loadings; 3. and, economic competitiveness. The article then offers an example of good practice in product development, in which a competitive natural dyeing
process was developed that fulfilled the quality requirements of the industy and of consumers, while simultaneously reducing environmental loadings. Finally, there is a presentation of widely applicable sustainability criteria that can be applied in the course of developing products based
on renewable resources.
Wirkungsorientierte Steuerungskonzepte in der Umwelt- und Nachhaltigkeitspolitik Wirkungsorientierte Steuerungskonzepte in der Umwelt- und Nachhaltigkeitspolitik
Authors: Eberhardt Alfred
Published: March 2017

The article evaluates and compares impact- and result-oriented management approaches in environmental planning, sustainability strategies, new public management, and development cooperation. In all of these policy fields, some prerequisites for success can be identified. For example,
it is crucial that goals are precise, that sufficient funds are allocated and that the process of goal achievement receives political support. The added value of result-oriented management concepts can be identified mainly in the fact that they may markedly enhance process design as well as
motivation and cooperation among the stakeholders, rather than ensuring effective problem-solving at the subject level. It is concluded that result-oriented management concepts should be understood as one of several, mutually supportive elements of institutional innovations for sustainable
development.
Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology – Walking a Tightrope Between Science and Practice Umweltchemie und Ökotoxikologie im Spannungsfeld von Wissenschaft und Praxis
Authors: Fenner Kathrin , Escher Beate
Published: March 2017

Research in ecotoxicology and environmental chemistry aims to control and improve the status of our environment in response to chemical pressure. Knowledge gained from fundamental research in environmental sciences, however, is often far from being instrumental in solving real-world
problems. This data dilemma is partly due to the inherent overcomplexity of ecosystems, which may lead to heterogeneous if not contradictory observations that make it difficult to give clear-cut and fast advice. In other ways, the data dilemma is caused by the lack of flexibility of the academic
system to accommodate the dual goal of performing practiceoriented research while pursuing a classical academic career. We use examples from ecotoxicology and environmental chemistry to argue that the state of the two fields can be improved by a more rigorous use of process-oriented models.
With this improvement, the two fields are brought closer together conceptually, which, consequently, facilitates a coherent assessment of chemical risk. To motivate more young researchers to work at this interface, the incentive system has to be adjusted such that scientific merit is judged
not only on the basis of classical criteria (i.e., numbers of publications and citations), but also on the basis of the direct usability of their research for solving practical problems.
Education in Harz National Park – From Nature Experience to Education for Sustainable Development Der Nationalpark Harz als Bildungsort – Vom Naturerleben zur Bildung für eine nachhaltige Entwicklung
Authors: Bögeholz Susanne , Bittner Alexander , Knolle Friedhart
Published: March 2017

Pedagogic interventions in national parks usually aim at fostering the appreciation of wilderness and at providing opportunities for nature experiences. In order to analyse the adequacy of these priorities for Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), we investigate educational interventions
offered by Harz National Park in Northern Germany. We argue that nature experiences foster competences needed for sustainable development. In particular, they provide an opportunity to develop, recognize and/or reflect upon norms and values. However, only when combined with factual knowledge
and techniques to cope with the ethical and factual complexities and uncertainties of real-world decision-making, the full potential of the nature experience is realised. We develop respective recommendations for the educational practice in national parks. The suggestions account for synergies
with curricular education and ESD programs offered by other, extra-curricular providers of educational services.
Integrating 3D Visualisation in Landscape Design and Environmental Planning
Authors: Lange Eckart , Hehl-Lange Sigrid
Published: March 2017

Information is a key element in environmental decision making. In landscape and environmental planning, information can be presented in a number of ways, ranging from texts and statistics to realistic representations such as 3D visualisations. We assume that 3D visualisations of scenarios
for landscape changes are a key element for informed decision making. In order to assess the role of 3D visualisation in the planning and decision making process, we have examined three case studies related to generating energy (i. e., hydro power, reclamation of a brown coal surface mine,
and wind turbines). In the early 1990s when 3D visualisation technology was just becoming more widely available, the application was typically limited to large infrastructure projects that were often subject to an environmental impact assessment. At that time 3D visualisation was only used
to show the results of the planning and decision making process. There are indications that this is now changing towards integrating visualisation already in the earliest planning steps. Such integration allows both planning experts and the public to engage on equal footing in the entire planning
and decision making process.
Gender und Nachhaltigkeit – neue Forschungsperspektiven Gender und Nachhaltigkeit – neue Forschungsperspektiven
Authors: Katz Christine
Published: March 2017

Over the last few years the amount of discussions and research on gender and sustainability has increased steadily. These efforts were primarily initiated by the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. Beyond the programmatic
level of gender justice and empowerment of women, there is an epistemological, conceptual and methodological approach in feminist research that has to be taken into account to generate adequate data of complex living contexts.In Germany the discourse on gender and sustainability, which
started as a discussion on women and nature/environment, became influenced by the feminist criticism of science and technology and came to be embedded within the political activities of the women's movement. This article focuses on new research qualities that emerge if gender research in social
sciences is combined with feminist criticism of science and technology.
Was führt zum Kollaps von Gesellschaften? Krieg als entscheidender Faktor Was führt zum Kollaps von Gesellschaften?: Krieg als entscheidender Faktor
Authors: Helbling Jürg
Published: March 2017

Ist der Kollaps vormoderner Gesellschaften letztlich auf Bevölkerungsdruck und auf die damit verbundene Übernutzung und Schädigung von Ressourcen zurückzuführen? Ohne die Relevanz dieser Faktoren zu bestreiten, wird diese Malthusische These hinterfragt, die
Jared Diamond in seinem 2005 erschienenen Buch Kollaps: Warum Gesellschaften überleben oder untergehen vertritt. Welches sind die Determinanten des Bevölkerungswachstums? Welche Rolle spielen technologische Innovationen auch in vormodernen Gesellschaften? Sind endemische Kriege,
die zum Kollaps einer Gesellschaft beitragen, die Folge von Bevölkerungswachstum und Ressourcenübernutzung, oder sind sie vielmehr deren Ursache? Ist der Kollaps vormoderner Gesellschaften letztlich auf Bevölkerungsdruck und auf die damit verbundene Übernutzung und
Schädigung von Ressourcen zurückzuführen? Ohne die Relevanz dieser Faktoren zu bestreiten, wird diese Malthusische These hinterfragt, die Jared Diamond in seinem 2005 erschienenen Buch Kollaps: Warum Gesellschaften überleben oder untergehen vertritt. Welches sind
die Determinanten des Bevölkerungswachstums? Welche Rolle spielen technologische Innovationen auch in vormodernen Gesellschaften? Sind endemische Kriege, die zum Kollaps einer Gesellschaft beitragen, die Folge von Bevölkerungswachstum und Ressourcenübernutzung, oder sind sie
vielmehr deren Ursache?
Transdisciplinary Research – a Distinct Mode of Knowledge Production? Problem-Orientation, Knowledge Integration and Participation in Transdisciplinary Research Projects Transdisziplinäre Forschung – ein eigenständiger Modus der Wissensproduktion? Problemorientierung,
Wissensintegration und Partizipation in transdisziplin?ren Forschungsprojekten
Authors: Zierhofer Wolfgang , Burger Paul
Published: March 2017

The debate on transdisciplinary research has so far rarely addressed the epistemological and methodological issues of this new form of scientific practice. With our paper we offer a contribution that attempts to fill this gap. Setting out from a system of knowledge desiderata of "problem-oriented
research" we present an empirical analysis of problem-orientation, knowledge integration and participation of non-scientific actors in transdisciplinary research projects. The results show that the term "transdisciplinary research" is used for quite heterogeneous project goals and epistemic
ends. The results reveal further that methods of knowledge integration are used only on a small scale and that participation often does not primarily serve epistemic ends. Thus, the notion of transdisciplinary research covers projects only in the sense of a family-resemblance, and does not
represent a fertile methodological point of reference. Therefore, we propose to relate further methodological considerations with types of knowledge desiderata.