Department Forest - Wood - Environment

The Department of Forest, Wood and the Environment conducts interdisciplinary research into the wide-ranging challenges associated with the sustainable development of forest ecosystems and the responsible use of timber as a raw material. The focus is on the interactions between forests, the environment, society and the economy, as well as on the question of how forests and timber resources can be managed and utilised sustainably in the face of climate change, biodiversity loss and processes of social transformation. The aim is to establish a scientific foundation for future-proof solutions – ranging from the adaptation of forests to changing environmental conditions, through the development of sustainable value chains, to the promotion of a bio-based circular economy.

The research combines ecological, technical, social and economic perspectives and ranges from the study of natural processes in forest ecosystems to the development of innovative applications and strategies for the use of wood. It takes place within externally funded and collaborative projects, international partnerships and in close cooperation with industry partners from forestry, the timber industry, politics and society. This is complemented by expert reports, studies and the active involvement of students in current research projects. The Department’s research thus acts as a bridge between science and practice – with the aim of developing sustainable solutions for the protection, use and further development of forests, wood and the environment.

The professorships are organised thematically according to their specialist areas; they collaborate across disciplines and promote interdisciplinary approaches in all areas of activity. The Departmental Management coordinates research, knowledge transfer and staff development, is responsible for the strategic use of resources and contributes to shaping the academic profile of the Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development.