News
Urban blue spaces: quietly supporting food, income and community
The rivers, lakes and ponds in cities – urban blue spaces also known as UBS – are increasingly recognised for their ecological and social roles. However, their contributions to sustainable food systems remains understudied. For this reason, an international research team examined the extent and benefits of foraging for food in blue spaces across four major Indian cities. The items collected included fish, crabs, clams and plants as well as berries, mushrooms and flowers. more…
Sustainable food systems and the meaning and structure of sentences
The German Research Foundation (DFG) has extended its funding for two Research Training Groups (RTGs) at the University of Göttingen. The RTG “Sustainable Food Systems” carries out research at the interface between agricultural and economic sciences and has been awarded funding of around €5.5 million. The RTG “Form-meaning Mismatches” carries out research in linguistics and will receive around €4.5 million in funding. more…
How can cocoa farmers adapt to climate change?
Climate change threatens agricultural production across sub-Saharan Africa, where most farmers rely on rainfall. A new study shows that Ghanaian cocoa farmers who cultivate cocoa under shade trees – a practice known as agroforestry – are better able to withstand periods of reduced rainfall. However, the study also finds that these benefits are confined to Ghana’s wetter regions, which have a climate that better suits growing cocoa. more…
Connections with nature in protected areas
Protected areas are often seen as refuges for plants and animals – yet they are also places where people live, work and relax. A new study shows how deeply people are connected to these landscapes. The research team analyzed personal stories from residents, land managers, and visitors in protected areas. Their findings reveal that protected areas foster local identity, support learning about nature, and provide spaces for recreation, working together and community engagement. more…
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Further news
Tenth Japanese-German Presidents’ Conference of the HeKKSaGOn Alliance
In spring 2024, the rectors of the Japan-Germany HeKKSaGOn Alliance agreed to promote new joint projects and to establish cooperation in the cross-disciplinary field of "Technology Transfer and Entrepreneurship". The conference in Osaka now produced an entirely positive interim assessment. more…
Statement on the war in Israel and Gaza
We welcome the ceasefire in the Gaza war and the release of the hostages kidnapped by Hamas. These developments fill us with hope that they mark the beginning of a comprehensive peace process in the Middle East – with the goal of a peaceful and self-determined future for the Israeli and Palestinian populations alike. more…