The latest news from Eawag

As glaciers retreat, new lakes emerge and ecosystems develop. A study in Greenland shows that they are highly connected to the surrounding landscape.

Pesticides that enter groundwater and eventually drinking water can pose risks to both human health and the environment. Groundwater in karst regions is particularly vulnerable to contamination because the protective soil layer is often very thin. A study using high-frequency sampling shows that groundwater from karst springs in the Jura can become heavily contaminated, especially after rainfall. Up to six percent of drinking water samples from the Swiss Jura could exceed the regulatory limit.

Native freshwater mussels are among the most endangered animal groups in the world. Their populations are also declining in Switzerland. Yet, as natural water filters, they play a vital role in our water bodies. To protect them, we need to study them more closely, but this is difficult as many species are almost impossible to distinguish morphologically. A study by the aquatic research institute Eawag shows that genetic data could provide a valuable basis for this.

Green roofs differ from ground-level habitats in terms of biodiversity. This can help to boost biodiversity in cities.

When there is a prolonged dry spell and local authorities call on residents to save water, questions immediately arise as to whether it would make sense to reuse more water and collect rainwater. In light of recent events, here are some answers from Prof. Kai Udert, Head of the Process Engineering Department at Eawag.

Toxic blue-green algae blooms are a threat to lake ecosystems and can be toxic for humans and animals. At present, it is only possible to predict roughly when and where such blooms will form – based on water temperature and nutrient levels. Now, a long-term study by Eawag researchers shows that the accumulation of blue-green algae in a lake depends crucially on other plankton species: some organisms promote blue-green algae blooms, whilst others can prevent them even under favourable environmental conditions.

As the leader of the research group on Multifunctional Blue-Green Design at Eawag, Lauren Cook explores the intricate trade-offs between flood management, biodiversity, and urban heat. In this interview, she challenges the simplicity of "nature-based solutions" and explains how decision-making tools can help find the optimal solution for competing goals.

A new modelling approach provides a more accurate picture of how biodiversity in cities will evolve as a result of climate change.

Eawag researchers have produced a global risk map for manganese in groundwater, which can cause health problems in excessive concentrations.

Groundwater, our most important source of drinking water, faces a wide range of threats. A survey of experts shows that: the challenges are well known. However, effective protection requires better cooperation, more rigorous implementation of existing measures and long-term political commitment.

When planning blue-green infrastructure, greater emphasis must be placed on biological aspects. Systems with higher biodiversity function more effectively.

A global analysis of fish biodiversity using environmental DNA (eDNA) reveals how human activity and climate influence biodiversity patterns in river ecosystems. An international research team led by the University of Zurich, Eawag and Yunnan University has found that in warmer climates biodiversity accumulation is more pronounced as river catchment size increases, while human activities weaken this relationship.

An Eawag project in Bengaluru, India, is opening up new ways to respond to droughts and water scarcity. The focus is on the decentralised reuse of treated wastewater. Technological solutions alone cannot resolve the complex water challenges. Social aspects must be considered, as well.

Access to safe drinking water, as defined by the SDGs, modestly protects children from diarrheal diseases. An Eawag study shows which service elements matter most.

Together with SwissCore and the Mission of Switzerland to the EU, Eawag co-hosted the Swiss Science Briefing “Eyes on Water: Space, Science and Resilience to Water” to discuss the central topic of water and water resilience with European partners.

The Federal Council reappoints Martin Ackermann as Eawag director for another term.