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Research for Sustainable Development
Framework Programme of the German Federal Ministry
of Education and Research (BMBF)
Preface
in response to the High-Tech Strategy of the Federal
Government.
Contents
SUMMARY 2
PRELIMINARY REMARKS 5
SOCIAL DEVELOPMENTS 39
CROSS-SECTIONAL ISSUES 43
Summary
The next decade will determine whether and how • Social Development
we meet these global challenges. Mankind is con- Sustainable concepts require changes in society
fronted with a challenge of an unprecedented extent and therefore also changes of each individual per-
posed by climate change and water shortage, the son. We take these social dimensions into account
threat to biodiversity, soil degradation and shortage right from the beginning to enable the transfer of
of resources and energy. If the quality of life shall research results to everyday life.
be maintained in industrialized countries and be
improved in developing and newly industrialized With cross-sectional issues like “Sustainable Land
countries, we must find ways to achieve apparently Management“ and “Economic Aspects of Global
opposed goals: it is imperative to secure prosperity, Change“ this Framework Programme takes up spe-
to enable development and a future that is worth cific questions.
living as well as to reduce the consumption of natu-
ral resources and the emission of ecologically harm- Moreover, we create connections: between basic
ful substances. research and applied research, but also between
university and extra-university research.
The Federal Ministry of Education and Research is
facing these challenges with the Framework Pro-
gramme “Research for Sustainable Development”, Goals of the Framework Programme
for which funding of more than 2 billion euros is “Research for Sustainable Development“
earmarked.
Research as provision for the future must generate
The Framework Programme comprises the fol- new knowledge. This knowledge, however, must be
lowing central fields of action: relevant for practice. Germany is already a technol-
ogy and market leader in the fields of climate protec-
• Global Responsibility – International Net tion and adaptation to climate change, sustainable
working resource management as well as innovative environ-
We further expand international research col- mental and energy technologies. The Framework
laborations, in particular with newly industrial- Programme “Research for Sustainable Development”
ized countries and important partner countries is intended to intensify and enhance this position.
of the Third World. Global change requires joint
global action. Therefore, sustainability policy also means in-
novation policy to us. The funding-policy activities of
• Earth System and Geotechnologies the Framework Programme are thus concentrated,
We will understand climate change only when we in particular, on fields that develop future markets
know more about the “System Earth“. Therefore, and further enhance the export orientation of Ger-
we make considerable investments in the expan- many. Here, the challenges posed by climate change,
sion of new research infrastructures. scarcity of raw materials and securing of water sup-
ply are in the focus. Small and medium-sized enter-
• Climate and Energy prises shall be more involved in research.
We conduct research for improved energy ef-
ficiency and productivity of raw materials to The Framework Programme relies on the transdis-
reduce the impact of the climate change. At ciplinarity of funding programmes and projects. This
the same time, new adaptation strategies are means that all important partners of the innovation
required, because in many parts of the world, process as well as all relevant social groups need to
climate is already changing noticeably. be involved at an early stage.
funding of the Framework Programme “Research for II. Research partnerships with newly industrial-
Sustainable Development” will continuously take up ized countries in the field of climate protection
these topics, which turns the Framework Programme
into a learning, programmatically self-renewing The UN Climate Conference in Copenhagen in
programme. December 2009 showed that specific and binding
political agreements on climate change are difficult.
Last but not least, the results of these research Mankind cannot solve the climate change problem,
projects will make important contributions to the if the major emitters of greenhouse gases – in par-
implementation of legislative processes in the field ticular from so-called newly industrialized countries
of sustainability. – will not assume responsibility.
Africa will be hit particularly hard by climate For this purpose, the BMBF launches a new re-
change. Global warming will result in poor harvests, search initiative, which addresses in particular the
droughts, famines, poverty, epidemics and diseases. “BRICS-States” (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South
In Germany and Europe, we will be immediately af- Africa). We provide 60 million euros for these meas-
fected by the consequences – not least in the form of ures alone. Here, joint research projects on environ-
growing migration flows from African states. mental and climate protection technologies are the
main focus. Moreover, these collaboration projects
Therefore, we will increasingly cooperate with concentrate on fields with high export orientation –
Third World countries – at eye level – which will be also for the benefit of our own economy.
particularly hit by the climate change. They shall be
better enabled, at an early stage, to launch measures III. Thorough understanding of the Earth’s Systems
which contribute to the reduction of the impacts of
climate change. To achieve this, we want to build up Our research has enabled us to get an idea of the po-
the necessary competences. tential consequences of global warming. However,
we are at the beginning of an overall understanding
The BMBF will therefore establish the so-called of the “System Earth”, which proves to be extremely
“Africa Competence Centres“ (Regional Science Serv- complex. In particular, the relationships and the
ice Centres [RSSC]) in the next few years, which create interplay between land, ocean, biosphere and the
particularly viable scientific and research structures ice masses require a better understanding. We must
in different regions of Africa. We will support this drastically reduce the emission of climate-damaging
project with funding means of 95 million euros by gases. However, strategies to adapt to the impact of
2013. climate change are equally important.
Thus, Germany is paving the way for joint respon- For this purpose, we will enhance basic research
sibility in the global context. We contribute to more by providing new infrastructures and large-scale
climate justice. facilities and by intermeshing them more closely
with application-oriented research. Therefore, the
new framework program provides, inter alia, for the
continuous renewing of the German research vessel
4 RESEARCH FOR SUSTAINABLE D
EVELOPMENT – FRAMEWORK PROGRAMME OF THE BMBF
fleet, for which 650 million euros are earmarked search results into industry and society as environ-
throughout the term of the Programme. With this, mental policy does. The post-Copenhagen process,
we secure the efficiency of German marine research. the international year of biodiversity 2010 and the
entire Rio-process, which will be assessed in 2012, are
We open up supranational opportunities for col- showing and will show this clearly, now and in the
laboration at the highest level and we will gain new years to come.
insights in the complex ecosystem of our planet.
Thus the new Framework Programme contrib-
In addition, the Hamburg-based “Climate Service utes decisively to a responsible and forward-looking
Center“, which shall provide specific application- sustainability policy.
oriented advice and services for industry, public
institutions and authorities in the context of climate
protection, will be supported with approx. 20 million
euros from the Framework Programme Fund.
Prospects
Preliminary Remarks
The loss of biodiversity, energy problems, The 2008 progress report on the national sustain-
scarce resources and climate change as well ability strategy shows the guidelines of the Federal
Government in the field of sustainability. Emphasis
as the resulting social impact are challenges
is placed on the special role of research and develop-
which are all closely interrelated both at ment for achieving the national sustainability goals.
local and at global level. We therefore need
an integrated conceptual research approach For research, the sustainability principle means
commitment to a complex field of activity, where
which includes all important aspects at the
quick and simple solutions will have little chance
same time- economic, ecological and social of success. Instead, integrated networked thinking
ones – in order to prevent solving one prob- beyond disciplinary boundaries is required. The
lem at the expense of another. Such an ap- concept of sustainable development is becoming an
increasingly important economic factor. The High-
proach must be guided by the sustainability
Tech Strategy for Germany initiated by the Federal
principle. Germany, as an innovative research Government meets the global challenges. Protection
country, assumes responsibility to meet the of climate and resources has priority. Here, decisive
challenges of global sustainability. key issues of the future are identified which lay the
foundation for a competitive knowledge society.
„ Climate Protection/Energy“, following a systematic, extinction. In Germany, the loss of biodiversity is no-
integrated approach. Insights gained from research ticeable, too: one quarter of all plants and one third
in climate and the Earth’s System is linked with social of all animal species are deemed to be endangered.
processes. The extensive loss of biodiversity will not only affect
nutrition, but also the functionality and resistance
A number of observations, calculations and of the relevant ecosystems. Thus, other functions
modellings lead to the conclusion that we will be wit- important for mankind – the so-called eco-system
nesses of a climate change which, in its present form services – are also endangered, such as the supply of
and speed, is most likely to be caused by mankind high-quality water resources, degradation of harm-
to a large extent. Thanks to intensive research on ful substances and local climate regulation.
the Earth System – the interrelation between land,
ocean, biosphere, atmosphere and ice masses – we Sustainable land use plays a central role in the
are now able to get an idea of the possible impacts protection of natural resources and in coping with
of global warming. There are already first indica- climate change. When using biological resources,
tions that the sea ice sheet and mountain glaciers it must be considered how renewables can be
are melting, that the sea level rises and that the snow developed as a basis of the economy, and how the
cover decreases. Impacts on the drinking water sup- exploitation chains based on it should be designed.
ply for many people are to be feared. And moreover,
it is foreseeable that many species cannot adapt
themselves quickly enough to these changes. Among
them, there will also be those important for human
nutrition.
Amphibians 31%
Mammals 20%
Birds 12% above. It is intended to lay the basis for decision-
Fish 4% making with regard to future-oriented action. For
Reptiles 4% this purpose, we integrate the whole research proc-
ess, from basic to application research, into the new
Source: Red List 2006, World Conversation Union Framework Programme. Research for sustainability
copper, crude oil and waste paper doubled, tripled • develops innovative technologies, applications
or even quadrupled. Thus, efficient strategies for and concepts on the basis of this knowledge and
the handling of resources – from environmentally
friendly and socially acceptable extraction over • analyzes sustainable options for action for poli-
the increase in efficiency up to substitution – are tics, economy and society.
more necessary than ever. Innovative concepts and
technologies are required on all points of the value- A glance at the research programmes and policies
added chain. of other countries – e.g. Japan, the USA, the EU, India
or China – confirms: The holistic approach that the
sustainability concept offers has already left little
Improvement of knowledge base, develop- traces in the global research landscape.
ment of technologies, creation of options for
Germany is an international pioneer and con-
action
tinues to claim a top position in the competition for
the best ideas. With the new Research Framework
Research for sustainability is an integrated, system- Programme, we will continue to extend our lead.
oriented approach, which develops innovative This is represented by four basic procedures, which
concepts and solutions for the challanges outlined are evident in the whole programme:
8 RESEARCH FOR SUSTAINABLE D
EVELOPMENT – FRAMEWORK PROGRAMME OF THE BMBF
The Federal Government has committed In February 2008, the Federal Government adopted
itself, on the European and international the strategy for the Internationalization of Science,
Research and Development. Its goal is to strengthen
level, to meet the global challenges of envi-
the international collaboration with the best re-
ronmental and climate protection. Due to searchers, to jointly tap innovation potentials, to
its pioneering role in sustainability research, expand the collaboration with developing countries
Germany has a particular responsibility to with regard to education and research as well as to
assume responsibility on an international level and
develop and implement technologically
meet the global challenges.
sophisticated and ecologically responsible
prospects for the future in collaboration This strategy shapes the structure of this Research
with the rapidly developing regions of Asia, Framework Programme. Its international fields of
action are defined on two levels.
Latin America and Africa.
• Within Europe, the EU Research Framework
Programme is the basis for the development and
funding of environmental and climate research
as well as of the humanities and social sciences.
Therefore, this Framework Programme aspires
to achieve an effective and coherent networking
with the European funding initiatives and a close
connection to the policy units of the EU-Commis-
sion. Its pioneering role is emphasized within the
European research area; new impulses shall be
given both thematically and instrumentally.
10 RESEARCH FOR SUSTAINABLE D
EVELOPMENT – FRAMEWORK PROGRAMME OF THE BMBF
• Global competition presents the German sciences Research for Sustainability as central element
and innovation system with new tasks, which, in of European policy making
the field of “Research for Sustainability“, have to
be mastered above all in close collaboration with “FP7 is tailored for sustainability“: The 7th European
the booming newly industrialized countries. The Research Framework Programme (RP7) estimates 1.8
Research Framework Programme provides the bn euros for project funding in the field of “Environ-
partners outside of Europe with a new collabora- ment and Climate Change” and 610 million euros for
tion quality: Besides project work, the program- “Social Sciences and Humanities” by 2013. For other
matic dialogue on ecological basic research, thematic priorities, tenders for further sustainablil-
application-related environmental technologies ity-relevant projects are published. These activities
and social sustainability concepts shall be opened shall be coordinated with national funding priorities
up. and funding instruments in order to ensure opti-
mal preconditions for researchers in the European
Furthermore, the area studies are part of the research area. The following guidelines apply:
internationalization strategy of the Federal Govern-
ment. The tasks of the area studies include the analy- Learning with Europe:
sis of cultural resources, structures and development Regarding the preparation of the tenders, efforts for
dynamics of other societies from a current and a close coordination of national and Eurpean activi-
historical point of view. Area studies examine global ties are made. This Research Framework Programme
interlinkages and exchange processes of cultural, po- is intended to bridge the gap between national
litical, economical, religious, social or legal nature. research funding to European policy making. It is, in
In order to maintain and improve competitiveness particular, intended to promote interdisciplinarity
in the globalization process, it is essential to further and transdisciplinarity and is aimed at contributing
develop Germany‘s intercultural competence with to the European Sustainability Strategy. This applies
regard to the different regions of the world. Only if to thematic focuses as well as to the conception of
a broad spectrum of expertise is available, it will be methods and funding instruments.
possible to communicate successfully with different
regions of the world and to discuss about Research Exploiting European Opportunities:
for Sustainability. Specific European funding instruments and proc-
esses shall be used to ensure that German funding
is in line with European research. We support the
Commission in the definition and realization of
Food, Agriculture,
Biotechnology 1935 EUR
Environment 1800 EUR
future focuses. Here, the further development of the defined within the FP7. There, the most important
Network of National Contact Points is an important actors of a research area (economy, science, adminis-
component. Moreover, bilateral collaborations with tration and end customer) meet to create a vision for
strong partners will be further extended to consoli- future developments and to define future research
date the coordinated presence in Europe in order to demand. The European Institute for Innovation and
extend the leeway in fields of common interest. Technology (EIT) strengthens Europe’s competitive-
ness: In 2009, the first “Knowledge and Innovation
Shaping Europe: Communities“(KIC) on “Renewable Energy” and
Here, Germany’s long years of experience in the field “Climate Change” were selected. They shall become
of sustainability should be incorporated in the Euro- long-term networks which bring together partners
from the fields of education, research and industry
to turn research results into marketable products.
Germany will actively support potential German
network partners in the development of the KIC.
Development of the EU-Research Framework
Programm Budget (in million euros)
Integrating and programmatically supporting
Central and Eastern Europe
50 Under the German EU Council Presidency in May
2008, the research-policy representatives from Po-
land, Romania, Czech Republic, the EU-Commission-
40 er for Economy and Research as well as representa-
tives of the BMBF and of the four German research
organizations signed the “Lisbon to Leipzig- Declara-
30 tion“ (L2L Declaration).
Know-how transfer to Brazil, but also to Programme are therefore dedicated to the funding
of the new scientific generation. In addition, the ac-
other Southern Common Market countries cess of German scientists to laboratories, large-scale
facilities and joint projects in other countries is to be
supported.
ers and investors in Germany. Also, the specific incor- Research for sustainable development of
poration of international collaboration perspectives
into the national funding announcements opens up the megacities of tomorrow
new paths.The increased multilateral cooperation
plays a particular role in important sustainability
issues. Starting points for a better incorporation of
research in an evidence-based policy, for example,
are provided by the Marrakesh-Process, by the work
within the framework of the UNESCO-Commission
for Sustainable Developments and by the activities of
the United Nations University.
There has been a change in the approach of Research funding shall begin precisely where the un-
the Earth sciences: Up until now, the focus derstanding of complex interactions between solid
Earth, sea, icing zones, atmosphere, biosphere and
was on the individual components of the
changes of the Earth’s orbit can be enhanced. Only
system, which were researched in separate this integrated approach, which profits from new
disciplines: the oceans by oceanography, insights gained from Earth system research, enables
the atmosphere by meteorology and climate us to provide acceptable living conditions for future
generations.
research, the solid Earth by geology and
geophysics. Now, the Earth as a system is
increasingly taking center stage in research Focal points of research funding
– a system, in which the solid Earth, the
Findings from research and observation of the Earth
oceans, the ambient atmosphere and last,
and environmental processes are fundamental for
but not least, life are interacting complexly. the understanding of the Earth as a system and can
Corresponding to this change, the BMBF will finally be transferred into an effective Earth system
create a framework for an intense network management. In order to act sustainably, it is neces-
sary to understand and evaluate the human influ-
of the different disciplines of Earth sciences
ence on these processes.
in Germany.
Systematic collaborative research shall be initi-
ated in selected key regions, which serve as a kind of
large natural laboratory. The key regions are areas
likely to experience particularly dramatic changes
due to climate change. They are characterized by in-
tensive interdependence among land, sea, biosphere
16 RESEARCH FOR SUSTAINABLE D
EVELOPMENT – FRAMEWORK PROGRAMME OF THE BMBF
and atmosphere or by intense exploitation and high mine transport and deposition,
population density. These include Southern Africa,
the Arctic and Antartic area, Central Asia and the • biotic communities with extremely high biodiver-
German coasts. Here, the focus shall be on the inter- sity and its change, such as cold-water corals,
actions of geosphere-atmosphere-ocean as well as on
the interactions land-sea and biosphere-atmosphere. • integrated management of coastal zones as eco-
nomic and natural area.
occurring during melting, above all, in the regions of scales. The aim is, for example, the identification
Siberia and North Asia. of the feedback mechanisms in the Earth system in
order to derive information on the stability of the
Material cycles in the Earth system climate system in different geological periods. The
The distribution of certain elements in the Earth findings help predict anthropogenic influences on
system is decisively controlled by both physical and the climatic processes and distinguish them from
biological transport processes. The knowledge of
individual biogeochemical cycles must be improved.
A major concern of research over the coming years
will be finding the answers to the questions of how
Solute CO2 contributes to the lowering of the
biogeochemical cycles and eco systems react on
pH-value. The oceans become more acidic!
global change and how these reactions, for their part,
retroact on global change.
pH CO2 CO32
8.3 35 300
Here, of course, particular political and social in-
terest is focused on the topics of carbon cycle and the pH 30 250
8.2
increase in the greenhouse gas CO2. Future changes
CO3 2 25
of temperature, water cycle, of currents and layer for- 200
8.1
mation in the ocean and the acidification of the ocean 20
150
through increased dissolution of CO2 in sea water 15
8.0
will have significant effects on the ecosystems ashore CO2 100
and in the ocean and will change the carbon cycle. It 10
7.9
is a major concern to quantify these future changes 5 50
and to understand the decisive processes; beside the
7.8 0 0
carbon cycle, these include the cycles of water and 1850 1900 1950 2000 2050 2100
nutrients.
Source: Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel
Functional biodiversity and ecosystem functions
Large-scale experiments have proved that the acidi-
fication of the oceans through increased CO2 input
impedes biological calcification. This concerns cor- natural climate variations. A special challenge is the
als, in particular also cold-water corals, and plankton development of regional climate- and ecosystem
organisms, which form calcareous shells. Further models. Dynamic Earth system models, such as of
effects on biological and chemical processes are as- sedimentary basins, are the bases for the exploration
sumed, but require further examination in detail. In of deposits, just like the safety and risk assessment for
many cases, the long-term consequences, which the the subsoil storage of carbon dioxide as a contribu-
changes of biodiversity to be observed already today tion to climate protection or for the development
will entail, are still not known or not quantifiable. For and exploitation of geothermal resources.
example, they may refer to changes in the fish stocks
or to the poleward shift of plankton. Here, the analy- Earth system management
sis of already available data as well as experiments Large parts of the Earth system are subject to use and
and modellings must establish the bases on which change by humans. Our future will depend on how
the depiction of probable future developments is rapidly efficient Earth management can be devel-
possible. oped and globally implemented. The programme
“GEOTECHNOLOGIES”, as part of this Framework
Dynamic Earth system modelling Programme, provides methods and technologies for
One of the supporting pillars of Earth-system re- the development of options for the simulataneous
search is modelling. Earth-system modelling helps exploitation and protection of the habitat “Earth”.
describe the Earth and its processes to enable the It pursues the operational, application-oriented
evaluation of future environmental processes. It approach. It is focussed on a sustainable treatment
allows a holistic approach of geological processes of the Earth and goes beyond the understanding of
in different model meshes in all time and spatial processes. Almost all geotechnical measures on, over
18 RESEARCH FOR SUSTAINABLE D
EVELOPMENT – FRAMEWORK PROGRAMME OF THE BMBF
The “Geotech Market“ Initiative – a model for the future transfer of technology
and know-how
Funding instruments
tasks are concerned, which are either completed ogy), the institutes of the Max Planck Society within
within this period or which are afterwards included the framework of their “Earth Sciences and Climate
in the budget of a scientific organization. In this case, Research” and the Leibniz Association in Life and
the BMBF-funding represents start-up financing. Natural Sciences. The DFG is involved through prior-
ity programmes and is partner of the BMBF in the
Virtual teams/institutes, clusters or strategic alli- programme “GEOTECHNOLOGIES”.
ances shall be funded to work on new current topics
on an interdisciplinary basis. Examples for this could
be competence networks for risk management or First steps towards implementation
Earth system modellings, which establish new struc-
tures, pool results obtained across disciplines and 1. Key region: German coasts
provide services for scientific groups. A joint project
for the development of a data-management struc- The BMBF is already involved in the consultative
ture for Earth system research would also correspond process with scientific associations and practice-
to the new funding approach. Funding is used for oriented users of oceanographic research on
coordination tasks, for research work and necessary North and Baltic Sea aiming at the conception
investments. of a research agenda for the German coast. As of
autumn 2010, the BMBF accompanies the imple-
Beside these new funding approaches, further mentation with targeted funding measures of the
scientific interdisciplinary collaborative projects new Framework Programme.
are funded both on a problem-oriented and system-
oriented basis. Collaborative research work shall be 2. Key region: Central Asia
more focused on “hot spots“, such as natural regions
or model regions, and on priority topics. Above all, The BMBF, in collaboration with science, is
potentials of new basic technologies, as for example preparing a support project for research into the
of carbon-capture and storage technologies, mod- monsoon system in Central Asia. Central Asia is
ern early-warning systems or new geo-information understood as the area of the Pamir-Tibet plateau
systems shall be tapped. Depending on the possibili- and the adjacent mountain ranges and sedimen-
ties, partners from industry, mainly SME, are to be in- tary basins. This area is highly characterized by
tegrated. At least one junior group per funding topic the combination of geodynamic, climatic and
should be funded to enable the establishment of anthropogenic influences.
long-term competence on these issues in Germany.
Apart from staff appropriations for three or four per- 3. Key region: Southern Africa
sons, this instrument provides also consumption and
investment funds and is limited to three years. The Southern Africa is a key region in the forecasts
international collaboration is intended to be further of climate change. The land-ocean interaction
developed according to specific topics and following in close connection to the biosphere shall be in
the internationalization strategy. the focus of a systemic research cooperation, the
scientific core issues of which are currently being
compiled.
Institutional funding
4. Key region: The Artic
The BMBF finances major scientific organizations on
a proportional basis, such as the Max Planck Society, The BMBF enhances its funding measures for the
the Helmholtz Association and the Leibniz Associa- expansion and common European use of the Artic
tion. The contributions to Earth-system research research infrastructures during the programme
are provided by the institutions of the Helmholtz period. The ice-breaking research drilling vessel
Association within the framework of their “Earth and AURORA BOREALIS, the European Multidiscipli-
Environment“ Programme (geosystem in transfor- nary Seafloor Observatory (EMSO) and the Sval-
mation, atmosphere and climate, ocean, coastal bard Integrated Arctic Earth Observation System
and polar systems, biogeosystems: dynamics and (SIOS) have been included in the prioritized list of
adaptation, sustainable development and technol- the European Strategy Forum on Research Infra-
EARTH SYSTEM AND GEOTECHNOLOGIES 21
5. GEOTECHNOLOGIES
Climate change presents mankind with a Investments in climate protection are worth the
global challenge we can only meet together, effort in two respects. They contribute to the careful
use of our resources and to the preservation of our
since it affects almost all areas of life and
habitat for future generations. At the same time,
regions of the Earth. An unhindered climate investments in climate protection open up new
change would have considerable impact chances for our economy. Technologies, products
on the way of life of mankind and would and services developed in Germany for climate
protection and adaptation to the climate change
massively affect the basis of life in many
already play a leading international role in many
countries. fields and are accordingly in demand. Investments
in such technologies secure long-term employment
and economic growth in Germany.
Focal points of research funding also in developing and newly industrialized coun-
tries, which are particularly affected by presumably
In the field of action “Climate and Energy”, funding stronger impacts of climate change and due to their
is focussed on the following areas: lower economic and social resistance. Adaptation
means basically the management of climate impacts
Processes and interactions of the climate system on man and environment, on prosperity and quality
Climate system research, with its model simulations of life, on economic and social development. This
and scenarios, lays the foundation for all climate pro- management implies a better understanding and
tection measures and for the adaptation to climate the assessment of the risks, just like the understand-
change. Consequently, it is of particular importance. ing of social and economic potentials and conditions
It requires: for adaptation. This means,
• the further development of these models and sce- • to identify regional and sectoral-based impacts of
narios with the goal to limit the spectrum of the climate change,
expected developments and to assess the prob-
ability of extreme states, • to recognize knowledge deficits and
• improved temporal and spatial resolution of • to develop strategies and technical solutions for
the scenarios to enable reliable conclusions for adaptation measures.
decisions about adaptation issues on the decision
levels of government, federal states and regions, Whether competitiveness, prosperity and quality
of life can be maintained as usual also depends on
• progress in the understanding of processes and the ability to anticipate future climate conditions
interactions, which determine the Earth’s climate and to initiate adaptations. Applied research on
(e.g. in oceans, ice and snow, at the boundaries of adaptation to the consequences of climate change
the terrestrial and marine biosphere as well as in must therefore go hand in hand with improved
the upper Earth‘s atmosphere), forecast of extreme weather events and their impact
on ecological systems or economic sectors. The qual-
• the measuring, analysis and forecast of the car- ity of forecasts depends on the improvement of the
bon and hydrological cycle as well as of the trends short-term forecasts. The results of this research area
of all gaseous and particulate, climate-relevant allow the development of effective alarm systems
trace substances, and and the taking of precautions and political control
measures for crisis situations.
• data from satellite-based and other observation
methods for the monitoring of climate change. “Basic Energy Research 2020+“
The BMBF supporting concept for energy research
Landscape and soil are more and more in the “Basic Energy Research 2020+“ (published in 2008) is
limelight of scientific interest, in particular because an integral part of the 5th Energy Research Pro-
of their importance as sources or sinks of climate- gramme of the Federal Government, spearheaded
relevant gases. Little is known so far about the actual by the BMWi. The activities described serve climate
role of natural landscape and the different forms of protection, since they are targeted at the reduction
land use for climate change. It can be assumed that of C02-emissions in energy generation and utiliza-
climate change does not only change the landscape tion. Thus, energy research is in the front rank of the
itself, but also the demands on land use. These issues new research programme.
are closely intertwined and can only be investigated
by means of integrative research approaches. The funding concept is focused on fields of energy
research, in which new technological options are
Adaptation to the inevitable consequences of developed that still require basic research before
climate change they are ready for application. With this, research
Independently of the efforts to protect the climate, work on efficient energy generation and conversion,
suitable adaptation strategies for possibly occur- including energy storage, energy transport and end
ring changes must be developed. Focal points arise use of energy, as well as on the reduction of green-
26 RESEARCH FOR SUSTAINABLE D
EVELOPMENT – FRAMEWORK PROGRAMME OF THE BMBF
7,0
Hydropower Heat pumps Wind power Photovoltaics
Biomass Renewable waste Geothermal energy Solar thermal energy
6,0
5,0
4,0
3,0
2,0
1,0
0
1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007* 2008*
Contribution of renewable energy sources to primary energy consumption 1990 - 2008, in%. * Provisional, partly estimated.
Source: Calculation of EEFA after AGEB
28 RESEARCH FOR SUSTAINABLE D
EVELOPMENT – FRAMEWORK PROGRAMME OF THE BMBF
In future, people in Indonesia can protect Together with Indonesia, financial models are
themselves better against natural disasters: The developed which guarantee operation and main-
Tsunami Early Warning System, in the develop- tenance from 2010.
information into strategic planning and investment German research institutions involved would make
decisions. sense in some of the mentioned funding fields of
climate research.
Natural resources are the basis of the eco- Even though many mineral raw materials will be
nomic activity. Important natural resources available on our planet for quite some time, the
aim should be to achieve closed raw material cycles
include biomass, ores or fossil energy sourc-
through the improvement of efficiency in the use of
es. In addition, there are environmental me- raw materials, increased recycling and the enhanced
dia (waters, land, atmosphere, sun), flowing substitution of fossil fuels by renewable or secondary
media and the physical space of land and soil raw materials.
as well as biodiversity which jointly charac-
Adequate ecological and social standards are to
terize the resource “nature”. The worldwide be observed during the extraction and treatment
growing demand for raw materials increases of raw materials. For a sustainable economy, all
the pressure on ecosystems and environmen- resources must be treated with care and used more
efficiently with the help of innovative technologies
tal media. At the same time, human utiliza-
and services, and resource productivity must be
tion has immediate consequences for the boosted by optimized value-added chains. This re-
natural environment. quires systematic research into cross-industry mate-
rial flows from the angle of sustainability. Innovative
environmental technologies contribute decisively to
resource protection, in particular to the protection
of environmental media. They play an important
international role in the limiting of negative impacts
of globalization on the environment.
32 RESEARCH FOR SUSTAINABLE D
EVELOPMENT – FRAMEWORK PROGRAMME OF THE BMBF
Future lead markets for environmental tech- Biodiversity is one of the seven examined fields of innovation. The
nologies shall be determined at an early stage and relation between plant diversity and ecosystem functioning is
examined on these experimental fields.
SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT AND RESOURCES 33
• Central elements of system solutions for sustain- Urgent issues in the field of biodiversity concern
able management are technological innova- the sustainable use of ecosystem services, interac-
tions, which aim at an ecological and economic tions with environmental policy goals, such as
development with long-term sustainability. climate protection and other resources like water,
This includes, in particular, environmental and and the relationship between global change and
climate protection technologies, which help open biodiversity. Due to the strong interaction with dif-
up important international lead markets. Water ferent options of land use, these issues are integrated
technologies are an example of how export can and considered in the cross-sectional issue of land
be boosted, while, at the same time, international management.
responsibility is assumed.
Nature with its proven and optimized solutions is
• Technological innovations shall be linked with a role model for technological developments. This is
non-technological ones (for example services, the principle of success of bionics. The BMBF pursues
organizational innovations, actors’ cooperations) the goal of transferring sustainable bionic innova-
in order to achieve the required broad effect. In- tions into economic applications and of further sup-
novative service concepts play an essential role in porting the development of this research area, which
the increase of added value with a simultaneous is still in its infancy.
reduction of the use of resources.
Sustainable water resources management:
• In order to achieve the best possible effects, in- One of the major challenges of the future is to
novation research methods are applied (such as ensure the supply of clean water to the world
technology foresight, innovation and technol- population. Population growth, water pollution
ogy analysis). The aim is to use innovation time and the increasing water consumption per capita
slots for technology and market developments have a strong impact on water quality. In addition,
in an optimal way, to improve the accuracy of expansive climate changes and change in land use
funding, but also to enable basic concept innova- influence global and regional water cycles and thus
tions beyond existing technology developments. question the medium and long-term availability of
Moreoever, cross-industry conflicts of use for water.
scarce strategic resources shall be anticipatorily
considered (for example indium scarcity caused We can only meet the upcoming ecological,
by LCD-screen production). economic and social challenges of the 21st century,
if this outstanding importance is taken into account
• Funded projects must also take explicit account of by means of integrated research approaches. Water
adjacent systems and orient themselves towards as a resource needs to be used and conserved sus-
the sustainability goal (for example socio-eco- tainably in terms of an integrated water resources
nomic consequences, life-cycle considerations, management.
analysis of potential environmental effects and
34 RESEARCH FOR SUSTAINABLE D
EVELOPMENT – FRAMEWORK PROGRAMME OF THE BMBF
This approach requires a high degree of un- will be protected, a contribution is made to combat-
derstanding of the system across different scales ing climate change and, due to the reduction of the
and respective governance processes – even on material costs, the economic clout of businesses will
international level. Cross-references to the cross- simultaneously be enhanced. Here, research con-
sectional issue of land management, for example, cepts must consider technological and social interac-
arise in the field of agricultural economy. At first, tions. Thus, value-added chains, product life cycles
technological innovations and system innovations and possible feedbacks in intertwined value-added
developed in Germany need to be successfully tested chains are increasingly in the focus.
in the domestic market, to enable local suppliers to
demonstate system competence and to convince the Efficient and sustainable value-added chains
world market. The basis for this must be established encompass the sustainable supply of resources,
within the framework of national research activities. substitution strategies for scarce and strategic re-
Current challenges which have to be met on both sources, innovative manufacturing concepts within
the national and international level, are the adapta- the framework of production and the introduction of
tion to the impact of climate change, responses to new material cycle concepts and recycling technolo-
changing political framework conditions as well as gies. The combination of innovative services with
the adaptation to the consequences of the demo- efficient technologies provides particular potential.
graphic change. The connecting elements within the value-added
chains, for example logistics and value-added man-
Efficient and sustainable value-added chains agement, can contribute to considerable increases
Concepts that increase the productivity of resources in economic efficiency. High potentials are seen in
contribute to the reduction of resource and energy new concepts of ecodesign (bionic development
consumption, and thus provide high benefits for concepts, lightweight-construction products) as well
economy, environment and society. Scarce resources as in new product management concepts (expansion
In the MoMo-Project, leading experts from Germany and Mongolia examine the catchment area of the Kharaa River as a model region of Central Asia to
develop adapted and transferrable strategies and technologies within an Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM)
SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT AND RESOURCES 35
of product life, operator models, chemical leasing). Furthermore, there are unexploited potentials
Innovative environmental technologies help reduce for the mobilization of biogenic raw materials,
environmental pollution related to the use of raw which are to be tapped. On the other hand, there are
materials. land-use competitions (for example energetic use
against material use of wood) or area competition
Moreover, cross-sectional technologies, such as (for example between the cultivation of renewable
biotechnology, material sciences, bionics or nano agricultural raw materials and food plants).
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) are Other SME are active in the development of
often those that boost and use particularly ef- resource-saving vibration cleaning methods or
ficient technologies. Consequently, they are in intelligent logistics solutions for the measuring
the vanguard of technological progress in many of wood by means of mobile-phone photographs
fields. Own innovations or the early implementa- on the way from the forest to factory. In the field
tion of particularly innovative methods improve of resources and energy efficiency, the “SME-inno-
resource efficiency. vative” has no thematic restrictions. It aims at all
innovative SME from a variety of industries. With
The funding initiative “SME innovative” wants “SME-innovative”, the BMBF enables easy access
to support the development of innovative tech- to research funding for small and medium-sized
nologies for resource and energy efficiency. In the enterprises in important fields of future relevance,
focal point “Resource Efficiency”, SME work out since risks related to cutting-edge research are
specific contributions for the sustainable use of re- often difficult to calculate. For this purpose, the
sources – individually or jointly with other compa- BMBF has expanded the consultancy service for
nies or research institutions. This includes, e.g. the SME and has simplified and accelerated the ap-
development of new processes for the closing of plication and approval process.
material cycles in metallurgy and electroplating.
Precious metals from residues previously unused www.kmu-innovativ.de
are exploited by means of new technologies and
are returned into the production cycle. In the field
of recycling, laser technology for the automatic
sorting of mixed scrap metals is further developed
to obtain single-component fractions.
SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT AND RESOURCES 37
Biofuels 15,7 %
Biomass (Power) 11,6 %
BioEnergy 2021, Research into Microorganisms). The cific support of innovative SME is another element of
focal points of the present Research Framework Pro- project funding. In addition, the transfer of research
gramme, however, are forestry and the timber indus- results into practice is of particular importance:
try as well as the handling of socio-economic issues innovative transfer paths shall continue to be tested
within the framework of land management. Since, or newly initialized. This includes the transfer of
in particular, interdisciplinary approaches provide research results to vocational training. Furthermore,
enormous innovation potentials through the con- the collaboration with institutionally funded institu-
nection of chemical and biotechnological processes, tions, as e.g. the Max Planck Society and Federal
coordinated or joint funding of biotechnology and departmental research institutes, shall take place on
sustainability programmes are aspired. a strategic level.
Due to its orientation towards system-oriented Collaboration of several departments with the
research, the BMBF research funding in the topi- aim to unite innovation policy with the formation
cal field of biogenic raw materials complements of framework conditions is stronger than ever. One
application-oriented activities in the Research example is the strategic collaboration with differ-
Programme “Renewable Resources” of the BMELV. ent Federal departments within the framework of
The political objectives of the BMELV and the results the initiative “Steps towards sustainable resource
gained are integrated in this Framework Pro- management“.
gramme.
38 RESEARCH FOR SUSTAINABLE D
EVELOPMENT – FRAMEWORK PROGRAMME OF THE BMBF
Social Developments
The preservation of the natural bases of Social aspects of sustainability and the contributions
life cannot be separated from the issues of socio-ecological research have already played a
major role in the Framework Programme “Research
of social, cultural, economic and legal de-
for Sustainability“ (FONA) of 2004. Socio-ecological
velopment. Therefore, research must also research analyses the dynamic interactions between
go into the social preconditions and the individuals, society and the natural environment
consequences of sustainable development. from which it deduces social action strategies for
sustainable development. With this approach, the
Moreover, the development of instruments
research direction acknowledges the fact that the
and methods is promoted, which are able to preservation of the natural bases of life cannot be
generate synthesis knowledge and to scien- separated from issues of social, cultural and econom-
tifically relate and link the fields of action ic development.
mentioned so far.
In order to gain insights that can really be im-
plemented, a transdisciplinary access to research is
required, which comprises the collaboration of natu-
ral, economic, social and cultural sciences not only
on a scientific level, but includes also the collabora-
tion with actors from practice.
Thus, transdisciplinary socio-ecological research health, sustainable urban and regional develop-
lays the foundation for both the social discussion ment, the handling of systemic risks as well as new
on future technologies and research results for the ways to sustainable consumer behavior are and will
solution of the major global challenges. Chances and be surveyed in more than 50 joint research projects.
risks for the individual and for the society are realisti- Socio-ecological research contributes much to
research for sustainable development by integrating
different fields of knowledge, groups of actors and
fields of application.
cally assessed and the achievable degree of consen- The thematically oriented funding is mainly in-
sus is evaluated. tended to better network transdisciplinary insights
and the protagonists of socio-ecological research
with the science and engineering-oriented fields of
Focal points of research funding sustainability research. This is done through focus-
ing on issues of climate change and climate protec-
Creating options for working together with actors tion. The results and methods of socio-ecological re-
– governance for sustainable action search shall be made available for the development
The Research for Sustainability framework pro- of strategies to tackle climate change. The new focus
gramme had already offered funding – first and regarding the “Social Dimensions of Climate Change
foremost in the focus of socio-ecological research and Climate Protection” will flank the activities in
– that is aimed at the totality of actors of sustainable the field of action “Climate and Energy”.
development: apart from enterprises and research,
these are mainly private households, municipalities In these projects, the social effects of climate
and associations, political and economic institu- change are to be examined as well as the effects of
tions as well as NGOs. Together with these actors, the measures taken to tackle it – as a specific concern
the topical fields of supply and disposal, the fields of of population groups or ambiances. Climate change
conflict of environment, agriculture, nutrition and and other factors with global effects influence the
SOCIAL DEVELOPMENTS 41
Sustainable consumption
and it is thus ensured that knowledge is produced
which is adaptable and practical. In the project
Intelliekon – Sustainable Energy Consumption By
Households Based on Intelligent Meter, Commu-
nication and Rate Systems – feedback instruments
are developed and tested together with energy
providers and equipment manufacturers with the
involvement of consumers.
demographic development in various regions of the and the enforcement of normative basic ideas, such
world and may cause conflicts which threaten the as sustainability in democratic and liberally struc-
safety in the areas concerned. Changes in population tured societies as well as the dealing with long-term
structure and migration tendencies are therefore of time- and decision horizons.
great importance for sustainable development.
A topical focus will be the social dimension of sus-
Economics for sustainability tainability from the economics point of view of. Here,
The next funding phase of the funding priority “Eco- inter- and intragenerational justice is concerned.
nomics for Sustainability“ launched in 2005 will be Questions addressing the governance structures
concentrated on the further development of “Sus- with view to sustainability as well as the demarcation
tainability Economics“, which exists only in its basic between market and politics are paramount.
form, and on shaping it without giving up openness
to insights from other disciplines.
International and institutional integration
Essential aspects of sustainability economics are
e.g. the relation between political and economic In collaboration with the national contact points
action with regard to sustainability, issues of funding “Environmental Research” and “Socio-Economic
42 RESEARCH FOR SUSTAINABLE D
EVELOPMENT – FRAMEWORK PROGRAMME OF THE BMBF
Cross-Sectional Issues
Sustainable land management ment, food security and services of general interest.
In this respect, land management is to be regarded
as a highly complex field of action, which goes far
Changes in land use beyond the classic sectors of agriculture and forestry
and comprises aspects, like the use of water, soil or
Changes in land use and global change are closely in- biodiversity, regional value creation, the relation-
terrelated. The manner in which the Earth’s surface ship between urban and rural environments, quality
and natural resources are used will be decisively in- of life, segregation into shrinking and prospering
fluenced by the developments of the growing world regions etc.
population and migration problems, water scarcity
and danger of floodings caused by global climate Thus, research on land management consistently
changes as well as by global agricultural and energy pursues an integrative approach. With the aim to
markets. Decisions on land use are predominantly put the different dimensions of global and regional
made on regional or local level, in their totality change – environment/climate, economy/technol-
however they affect global processes, for example, ogy, society/culture – in an overall context, research
through increasing rural exodus or greenhouse areas of scientific-technological disciplines (e.g. soil,
gas emissions from agriculture – which will inten- water, eco-system, climate research, environmental,
sify non-sustainable development trends. If global agricultural engineering), previously separated, are
change shall be sustainably addressed, land man- brought together with economic and social-scientif-
agement as the basis of all socio-economic systems ic disciplines (e.g. environment, resource economics,
will be in the focus. Adequate land management is settlement geography, social ecology, environmen-
a future challenge, not only due to its fundamental tal ethics, governance research).
importance for global and regional change, but also
because of its immense complexity. Land use is in the The effect of the involvement of economic and
area of tension between environmental and climate social sciences is that issues, previously treated under
protection, energy supply and resource manage- the scientific-technological focus, are now treated
44 RESEARCH FOR SUSTAINABLE D
EVELOPMENT – FRAMEWORK PROGRAMME OF THE BMBF
under interdisciplinary aspects in the context of soci- outstanding and necessary basis for the closer
ety as a whole. Therefore, the research area of“Land linking of technological, non-technological and
Management” is a cross-disciplinary integration of organizational innovations is formed. Feasibility is
different but topic-related issues and thus a thematic of central importance for the success of the funding
focus. activity; the final decision is made on the actors’ level
(e.g. acceptance question, institutional framework
The aim of land-use research is the creation of conditions) and requires transdisciplinarity, such as
both the required knowledge and decision bases for the integration of decision makers and actors into
sustainable land management and the provision of the research process. The goal of this process is to
action strategies and instruments for a forward-look- achieve research results – e.g. as an impulse for serv-
ing adaptation of regional land use to global change. ice and sustainability innovations – which develop
To this end, knowledge-based and implementation- the desired social effectiveness. Global change and
based research is linked. This is a prerequisite for its regional effects are regarded as a challenge and
improved system understanding of the essential a chance for Germany as an area for research and in-
processes of global change and also helps identify novation in the sense of the High-Tech Strategy, the
interactions between ecological, economic and High-Tech Strategy on Climate Protection and the
socio-cultural concerns – thus also conflicts of inter- Masterplan Environmental Technologies.
est, which facilitates the search for future-oriented
and sustainable system solutions. Research into land The cross-sectional issue seizes the goals of the
management generates implementation knowledge High-Tech Strategy to enhance the collaboration of
in terms of integrative action. science and economy/practice and thus to accelerate
the economic exploitation of research results.
Since in this research area, scientific-technolog-
ical views are specifically brought together with Moreover, the integrative approach enables the
views from economics and the social sciences, an bringing together of different areas of innovation
After the stabilizing of sand dunes, seeds can accumulate and form a new cover of vegetation
CROSS-SECTIONAL ISSUES 45
of the High-Tech Strategy (e.g. environmental and • The region as a level of participation
water technologies, biotechnologies, services/knowl- On the one hand, with the involvement of region-
edge economy). There are also close connections to al actors practical knowledge is utilized for re-
the High-Tech Strategy “Climate Protection“: New search in the sense of a transdiciplinary research
knowledge regarding the adapatation of land use to approach; on the other hand, the acceptance of
climate change is generated, and the contribution of the developed proposals for solutions increases.
various land management systems to mitigation is
assessed. In view of the global importance of land use The funding activity is nationally and internation-
and sustainability issues, this research area can open ally oriented. Thus it contributes to the internation-
up new export chances for German environmental alization strategy of the BMBF. The global selection
technologies and environmental services. Moreover, of exemplary regions is useful to cover the different
the results and action strategies to be expected shall aspects of global change (e.g. desertification).
contribute to the implementation of national (e.g.
Sustainability Strategy), European (e.g. Sustainable Research on land use should be concentrated
Development Strategy) and international agreements on regions that are particularly affected by global
(e.g. Millenium Objectives, CBD). change, that are particularly relevant for certain key
questions/basic problems or that are particularly
suitable for the implementation of research results.
Funding instruments This includes, for example, the highly dynamic
growth regions of the world, where, due to envi-
Research into land management in the context of ronmental stress, the continuation of currently
global change must deal with highly complex issues prevailing land-use practices is virtually impossible;
and take into account the numerous, partly compet- regions particular affected (e.g. by rural poverty or
ing, societal demands (e.g. food security – bioenergy) the impact of climate change) and with particular
as well as feedback mechanisms between society relevance in terms of natural features (e.g. drylands,
and ecosystems. Thus the focus is, in particular, on mountains and coastal regions) can be selected as
the interfaces of different user requirements. well.
In order to cope with this complexity, a region- This funding activity is characterized by inter- and
related research concept is pursued, i.e. correspond- transdisciplinarity, implementation orientation
ing exemplary regions with view to elementary and a region-specific research concept. The main
issues on land use (see below) are selected, based on instruments are collaborative projects based on close
which model-like and transferrable solutions are collaboration with regional actors. The collaborative
to be worked out. Regions are particularly suited as results shall be systematically integrated on a supe-
a common frame of reference for interdisciplinary rior level (Meta-projects e.g. in the context of global
research activities because they combine different economy, innovation potentials, and ethic ques-
viewpoints: tions). High importance is attached to the fact that
already existing knowledge (i.e. results from diverse
• The region as a level of integration national and international funding programmes) is
Here, the ecological, economic and socio-cultural processed and integrated in a problem-related way.
effects of global change converge concretely (e.g.
water scarcity, cultivation of cash crops, changed The funding activity is oriented to the range of
lifestyles and consumption patterns) and thus en- topics or problems mentioned below, which are to be
able the integrative consideration of the interac- treated based on model regions:
tion of the factors (e.g. integrated water resources
or materials flow management). • Regional impact of global changes on land use,
socio-economic conditions as drivers of change in
• The region as the central level of action land use
Decisions on land use are taken at the local/re-
gional level, so it is here, where the final decision • Land management strategies including resources
on the viability of a solution is made. management for coping with the regional im-
pacts of global change
46 RESEARCH FOR SUSTAINABLE D
EVELOPMENT – FRAMEWORK PROGRAMME OF THE BMBF
• Interaction and feedbacks between land use sys- First steps towards implementation
tems and ecosystem services
The goal of the starting funding measure “Land Man-
• Urban-rural relations and transregional coopera- agement“ is both the development of the required
tion knowledge and decision bases for sustainable land
management and the the provision of the respective
• Interdependencies between land use options; so- action strategy, technologies and system solutions.
lutions for competing uses and conflicting goals, The interactions and interdependencies between
exploitation of synergy potential land management, climate change and ecosystem
services are in the focus. A second, mainly nationally
• Contribution of land use changes and land man- oriented focus with its integrative approach is aimed
agement strategies to greenhouse gas reduction at the development of sustainable land management
goals systems and at perspectives for sustainable economic
development. This includes also the integrated
• Innovative technologies and services (socio-tech- consideration of the rural-urban development. For
nical systems) for sustainable land management these measures, altogether 100 million euros are
including technology assessment earmarked for investments in research and develop-
ment projects within the next four years.
• Innovative governance and participation models
for the sustainable development of regions
Institutional funding
Economy and sustainability nomic analyses have an important function for the
political assessment of sustainability strategies, for,
The concept of sustainability is directly connected on the one hand, they provide the methodical instru-
with the economic activity of people: economic ments for the quantification of revenue and expense
activity profits from the natural environment At of measures, on the other hand, they highlight
the same time, nature has a function as a sink for economic chances arising from the early political
“excretions“ of the economic system in the form of guidance and funding of sustainability innovations.
emissions and waste. Since both resources and the
environment’s absorbtion capacity are limited, eco- Experience gained in recent years shows that, in
nomic processes must be sustainable if long-term de- a globalized world, isolated solutions for individual
velopment goals shall not be sacrificed to short-term sustainability problems, which do not take into ac-
prosperity. In this context, a crucial question will be, count the increasingly international intertwining of
which new governance structures are required to markets and political processes, will have little pros-
meet the aims of the national sustainability strategy. pect for success. For example, successes of national
In the Framework Programme “Research for Sustain- sustainability strategies can be compensated and re-
versed by international economic mechanisms (key
word “Rebound Effects”). On the other hand, globali-
zation provides great opportunities, which can be
seized by taking measures based on comprehensive
analyses and considering the interactions of inter-
national markets and politics. Thus, not only does
the connection of technical and political pioneer
strategies in the field of environment and sustain-
ability of the German economy secure competitive
advantages, it also triggers new ways of sustainable
development in developing and newly industrialized
countries.
For a quarter of a century, researchers of the The explanation for the decreasing sensitivity
“Socio-Economic Panel SOEP“, supported by a poll- is the fact that at this time, the growing unemploy-
ing agency, have interviewed more than 20,000 ment seemed to be coming to the fore. During the
women and men of 12,000 households once a year past three years, the value has increased again.
about their economic and social situation and Since 1995, people have never rated their envi-
their hopes and expectations. ronment as bad as they did in 2007. Reasons for
this development must be seen in the context of
Thus, the SOEP is the biggest and longest run- the worldwide debate on climate change, which
ning interdisciplinary longitudinal panel dataset becomes more heated.
Priorities of the research area my. The challenges for economic sciences are mainly
the analysis of changes in global markets (energy
It is the goal of research to lay the foundations for and raw material markets, shifts in the structure of
knowledge and decision making and to find imple- world trade, international technology transfer) to
mentation strategies which guide national econo- derive strategies for promoting the expansion of sus-
mies and the global economy as a whole towards tainable production and consumption patterns– in
a path of sustainable development. In the end, the particular in the field of climate and energy.
international economic relations are increasingly
intensifying and newly industrialized countries Moreoever, the difficult negotiations of the post-
like Brazil, China and India show rapid economic Kyoto agreement have shown that a fair system of
growth. The research results to be expected here burden-sharing in the adaptation to climate change
might contribute decisively to the firm establish- as well as the distribution of rights to use and pollute
ment and implementation of national and interna- resources are important issues of the international
tional sustainability strategies. sustainability policy.
Climate and energy There is still great need for feasible action strat-
The climate protection goals of the Federal Govern- egies. These, however, require the analysis and
ment pose great challenges for the German econo- solution of the equity problems in the relationship
CROSS-SECTIONAL ISSUES 49
between industrialized and developing countries, on the analysis of feedbacks from the commodity
but also in the relationship of today’s and future gen- funds to the international commodity and financial
erations. Since it is precisely in this respect that issues markets, and on the other hand, on the interdiscipli-
of population growth and migration are addressed nary development of indicators for the assessment
(key word: “climate migration“), this also implies the of sustainability within the framework of “Ecolabel-
analysis of demografic development processes and ling” as well as the political implementation of stand-
migration movements, in particular in connection ards in the area of tension of international environ-
with climate change. mental and trade policy.
The economic sciences introduce various meth- For comparatively resource-poor industrial coun-
ods for the modelling of socio-economic interac- tries like Germany, demand-oriented measures are
tions, but also for the measuring and assessment of in the focus of strategy – against the background of
equity, which could serve the systematic treatment the Federal Government’s resources strategy. These
of equity effects in all sustainability dimensions. measures shall contribute to the reduction of the
resource demand (sustainable consumption), they
Apart from the economic assessment of climate are intended to develop innovative technologies for
impacts and research on innovation potentials in the economization of resources (sustainability inno-
the field of energy and climate, focal points of this vations) and to support innovative strategies for the
research area will therefore also be the analysis of recycling of resources (key word “recycling manage-
intra- and intergenerational equity problems of ment”). Economic sciences can make valuable contri-
sustainability policy. butions to this, e.g. to the better understanding of in-
novation processes, which are aimed at the increase
Natural resources of resource efficiency. There is need for research, in
Permanently and reliably availabe natural resources particular, regarding the development of methods
are a prerequisite for sustainable economic ac- of innovation and technology foresight, the integra-
tivities. From the economic sciences’ point of view, tive assessment of technological development paths
attention must be paid to the developments on the (key word “path dependencies”) and regarding the
international commodity markets and to their eco- orientation of efficiency technologies towards strate-
nomic, social and ecological impacts. In the case of gically particularly important resources.
renewables, this applies to an increasing extent even
to the international agricultural market, and this By identifying lead markets for German efficiency
both from a German and international perspective. technologies, research contributes not only to the
strengthening of the competitiveness of German
A strongly growing demand for raw materials economy, but also to the achievement of the sustain-
may cause sharp price increases and a shortage on ability goals of the Federal Government. In doing so,
the respective markets within a short period of time, implementation and action knowledge for strategies
while the access to raw materials in general becomes of a sustainable resource management on national
more difficult. Such a development involves great and global level shall be developed, i.e. considering
challenges, as for example increasing pressure global intertwining of resource flows and the inter-
on ecosystems, increasing violence and conflicts national development of efficiency technologies.
through raw material production in politically The variety of economic research approaches ranges
instable regions and the insufficient securing of the from the consideration of technical or organization-
participation of the respective producing countries al innovations on company level (e.g. new business
in the profits from this sector. models), the integrated view of global value-added
chains up to the issue of institutional anchoring of
Against this background, innovative strategies strategic measures as well as global governance.
for sustainable resource management are needed.
This can be done by supporting national commod- Demographic change and social cohesion
ity funds in resource-rich countries. Also important Demographic change presents a major challenge for
is the respect towards environmental and social politics in Germany, for example, in the sustainable
standards when resources are produced and further formation of the social security systems, the protec-
processed. Here on the one hand, research is needed tion of public finances, the sustainable securing of
50 RESEARCH FOR SUSTAINABLE D
EVELOPMENT – FRAMEWORK PROGRAMME OF THE BMBF
Large-scale facilities and research infra- ties and political decision makers. Remote sensing
structures data play an important role in the global observation
of the system Earth and in the recording of natural
Large-scale facilities and infrastructures such as sta- disasters. Remote sensing methods help assess the
tions, observatories and a network of measuring sta- risks of natural hazards and are used for the mission
tions are indispensable for research. As a rule, they planning in case of catastrophes.
are operated by the Helmholtz Association or the
Leibniz Association. All large-scale facilities consist Social sciences
of instruments beneficial to the community. Apart In the field of social sciences, in particular the Socio-
from the respective research work of the Associations Economic Panel, the German Data Forum and the
mentioned, they can be used to carry our research research data centers play a leading role
for university institutions even on an international
level. This provides universities with access to excel-
lent research instruments, which they themselves
cannot operate due to the complexity and the high Earth observation satellites
construction and operating costs. Financing of con-
struction and operation is based on the use and the
application of the respective facility.
Polar stations
Germany maintains an Antarctic research station,
which is operated all year round as an observatory
for the observation of the Earth system in an environ-
ment that reacts extremely sensitively to global envi-
ronmental changes. Moreover, it serves as a logistic
platform for summer expeditions of German and
international research teams. An infrasound meas-
uring system in a worldwide monitoring network
ensures the compliance with the Comprehensive
Test Ban Treaty in the Southern part of our world. The
third new building of the Antarctic station “Neu-
mayer-III” was put into operation in the Antarctic
summer 2008/2009. The German-French Research With satellites, versatile sensors for the obser-
Station (AWIPEV) is situated on Spitzbergen. It pro- vation of the Earth are used, which record the
vides research opportunities for the fields of biology, state of the Earth as our living environment, its
chemistry, meteorology as well as geophysics and changes and its dynamics on a global basis. Sat-
atmospheric physics. ellite pictures and measurement data are used
by scientists, authorities and political decision
Research fleet makers. Remote sensing data play an impor-
The application fields of German research vessels tant role in the global observation of the system
range from the Arctic to the Antarctic, from the In- Earth and in the recording of natural disasters.
dian Ocean to the Barents Sea, from shallow coastal Remote sensing methods help assess the risks
waters to the deep sea. Germany is internationally of natural hazards and are used for the mission
considered to be an important key player in modern planning in case of catastrophes.
marine research.
Marine research in Germany, with its world-lead- area shall be the most important working plat-
ing contributions, depends on the use of research form for expeditions to the Atlantic, the North Sea
vessels. German research vessels are assigned to and the Baltic Sea within the next 25 to 30 years
scientific institutions. These vessels are efficiently and is meant to examine the oceans’ influence on
and economically operated in the interest of sci- climate fluctuations.
ence and on the basis of the coordination agreed
by the Federal and State Governments.
research of new production technologies with the Healthy Nutrition”, which bundles all relevant re-
aim to develop examplary solutions for a future- search activities, such as plant research, agricultural
oriented production in Germany and to provide, and nutrition sciences as well as bioenergy research.
in particular, small and medium-sized enterprises Furthermore, the white or industrial biotechnologies
(SME) with research results for broad application. make an important contribution to the development
In the years to come, the BMBF provides more than and the redirection towards sustainability in indus-
50 million euros for innovative research projects in trial production.
which enterprises in collaboration with partners
from science and research will develop trend-setting
procedures and technologies for more energy and
resources efficiency. The Framework Programme
“WING –Materials Innovations for Industry and Soci-
ety” is currently funding topics on materials, which
increase energy efficiency or productivity and which
contribute to higher reseources efficiency for materi-
als and energy in the end product as well as to higher
environmental quality and quality of life.
provides funding for projects which aim at cooperation with partners from industry shall
genome research on microorganisms for human promote new conversion processes for biomass as
health, for the analysis and use of biodiversity well as the optimized cultivation of energy plants.
and for environmental protection, agriculture The funding priority was launched in autumn
and biotechnology. The current funding projects 2007 and will run for 5 years. Funding of approx.
(GenoMik-Plus and GenoMik-Industry) started in 50 million euros is earmarked.
2006 and 2007, respectively, and were initially
• For many years, developments of biotechnology
and genetic engineering, in particular new fields
of application in agriculture and the food indus-
try have been discussed controversially in public.
There are still questions regarding the effects on
humans and on the environment. Current devel-
opments in the field of green genetic engineering
highlight the need for a supporting biological
security research. Against this background, the
BMBF has been funding research projects for
biological security research on genetically modi-
fied plants for several years. Current funding for
biological security research runs from 2008 to
2010. For this purpose, about 10 million euros are
earmarked.
other social groups and to work out recommenda- measures cannot currently be implemented due to
tions with regard to research funding as well as gaps in research and knowledge. Moreover, basic
framework conditions for politics. research in the field of lifelong learning shall be
expanded to include the following issues:
Education
Sustainability requires permanent deepening of • Effects of demopraphic change on the participa-
knowledge on processes and their effects. This is only tion in lifelong learning,
possible if education and training of people them-
selves is understood as a continuous and sustainbale • Effects of educational guidance on the participa-
process. On the one hand, the implementation of tion in lifelong learning,
new technologies, e.g. regarding the protection of
climate and resources, requires the rapid diffusion • Connection between learning behaviour and
of the demands on and the changes in professional didactics,
qualifications and skills.
• Intercultural and intergenerational learning,
The entity responsible for quality assurance is the In order to properly process complex scientific issues,
respective department that issues the tenders. networking of researchers from natural sciences,
According to topic and orientation of the announce- Humanities and engineering is essential. Experience
ments, totally different approaches and methods can shows that interdisciplinary collaboration does not
be selected, such as the ex-ante evaluation, audits or come automatically, but needs to be actively sup-
the ex-post evaluation. In addition, quality assurance ported. Thus, this BMBF Framework Programme is
is supported by high-level panels of experts, who meant to further boost the networking of scientific
accompany the Framework Programme right from actors and to create the appropriate framework to
the beginning. this end.