Division 4 - Natural and Built Environment
The Division 4 'Natural and Built Environment' stands for science and knowledge for society and the environment. Social and natural processes are observed and shaped, in particular the ecological and socio-economic consequences of the earth in change. This division combines research, teaching and innovation of the Institutes of architecture, civil engineering, geo and environmental sciences as well as meteorology and climate sciences and performs synergies. The scientists aim for local, regional and global solutions for a livable, natural and built environment contributing to a sustainable and thus future ready society. Teaching and acadamic affairs of the division are organized in the two KIT departments of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Geo- and Environmental Sciences, and the mission-based large-scale research is managed in the Helmholtz program "Changing Earth-Sustaining our Future". Since October 01, 2020, Professor Dr. Johannes Orphal has been Head of Division 4.
Science and knowledge for society and the environment
In the IAGOS-CARIBIC research infrastructure coordinated by KIT, a 1.7-ton measurement laboratory is used in the cargo hold of a converted passenger aircraft.
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Two KIT research projects are funded by the BMBF - Test phase of the project "Innovation Platform MaterialDigital" started.
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International research project develops user-friendly methods for predictive assessment of water quality in reservoirs - Reduced data requirements enable global use.
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KIT shows a record decrease of seven percent in the free troposphere with infrared measurements at Zugspitze.
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KIT digitally hosts 3rd European Hail Workshop from March 15 to 18, 2021 - Frequency and severity of hailstorms increase with climate change.
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IT researchers study the effects of heavy rainfall in southern Germany to develop recommendations for municipalities.
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KIT researchers warn of adverse effects on meat and milk production in East Africa. High temperatures and humidity lead to stress in animals.
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Fossil CO2 emissions have decreased more than ever before. However atmospheric CO2 concentrations continue to rise.
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KIT - Member of the Consortium Schneefernerhaus
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Contributions to sustainable urban development
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Interdisciplinary research at KIT on disasters, risks and security
linkClimate Protection and Sustainability
In 2020, Head of Division Prof. Dr. Johannes Orphal was appointed Presidential Commissioner for Climate Protection and Sustainability by the KIT Executive Board. For a detailed description of KIT's activities on climate protection and sustainablility, please click here:
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