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The Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht

Coastal Scientist
Photo: HZG/Suzanna Clark

The Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht (HZG) is a non-profit research establishment and is one of eighteen centres within the Helmholtz Association. As a member of the largest German scientific organisation, the Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht focuses on long-term objectives for materials and coastal research. The centre makes substantial contributions to clarifying difficult and pressing issues concerning society, science and economy. The scientists are engaged in research on novel lightweight engineering components, functionalised materials in medical and materials research, environmentally friendly technologies as well as studies on future climate and the coastal and marine environment

Institute of Coastal Research

Land and sea are closely interwoven in the coastal regions. The physical, chemical and biological processes are heavily intertwined in these waters. The coasts are habitats to sensitive ecosystems vital to most fish species. The protection of natural resources, however, often remains in conflict with human use. These conflicts will become more prevalent as the climate warms due to climate change.

The planet’s coastal regions are densely populated. Approximately a quarter of the world’s population lives within one hundred kilometres of the coast. This percentage will grow significantly over the coming decades. A strong understanding of the natural processes and changes is required in order to utilise coastal regions sustainably.

The Institute of Coastal Research at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht examines the various natural interactions in coastal regions and calculates projections on how the global coasts will develop in the future. The Institute of Coastal Research uses observations, analyses and models to provide a scientific base for sustainable development and future-oriented coastal management.

The Institute of Coastal Research was founded in 2001. It consists of three divisions: System Analysis and Modelling, Operational Systems, and Biochemistry in Coastal Seas. With over two hundred employees, it is one of the largest geophysical coastal research institutes in the world. In addition to state-of-the art computers and measurement systems, the institute also owns the research vessel Ludwig Prandtl as well as several small research ships designed for coastal studie Homepage of the Institute of Coastal Research

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