The domain of the Centre for Water and Climate encompasses research, advice and education in a) the physical, chemical en ecological processes in the interaction underlying the climate system, the hydrological cycle and the provision of ecosystem services, b) the interactions of these processes with human activities and c) the development of solutions for sustainable environmental policies and management.
The Centre deals with research stemming from natural sciences and social sciences, with mono-disciplinary and inter/transdisciplinary issues and with fundamental and applied research. The Centre contributes to the advancement of science and to improved policies and management practices on the local, regional and global scale. Specifically, the Centre pursues:
- to be recognized as a centre of excellence by the scientific community as result of the quality and quantity of its scientific output
to be acknowledged by clients on national and international levels as a reliable partner which provides outstanding science-based advice and innovative concepts, strategies and solutions for their policy and management problems
to contribute to environmentally sound, sustainable and equitable policies and management practices based on relevant and respected research and education
to educate and attract top-level scientists by providing an intellectually stimulating environment and ample opportunities for personal development
to draw an adequate number of high-quality students owing to first class education given by motivated, inspiring staff;
to disseminate high level knowledge and expertise through national and international assessments and capacity building, also with partners in developing countries
to have a comfortable, sound financial basis based on its successes in science, contract research, education and capacity building
The mission of the Centre therefore is:
Outstanding science and education in the fields of water, land, air and climate
to advance scientific frontiers, to improve environmental management practices,
and to advise on sustainable and equitable policies.