Location: Bad Salzschlirf, near Fulda

The 14th REKLIM Scientific Workshop brought together 44 participants, including 15 young scientists from six institutes, for an engaging exchange on climate change research. With 18 impactful lectures and 15 poster presentations, the workshop showcased the high-quality work being conducted within the REKLIM framework.

Focused discussions addressed pressing issues such as: Sea Level Changes, Extreme Events from Paleo and Recent Perspectives and Air Quality, Health, and Energy.

Participants explored strategies to synthesize research findings, bridge knowledge gaps, and enhance the applicability of scientific insights for societal and climate protection.

SOTERIA’s Contribution

The UFZ’s SOTERIA team actively contributed to the workshop, emphasizing the theme of “Synthesizing Regional Aspects of Climate Change.” The discussions aimed to connect global climate change narratives with local implementation strategies, particularly regarding coastal hazards and societal risks.

A significant part of the team’s research focused on regional disparities in the uptake of natural hazards insurance across Germany. Findings indicated varied levels of awareness and preparedness, influencing insurance demand. For example, Baden-Württemberg boasted an impressive insurance penetration rate of 94%, while Bremen and Hamburg lagged significantly behind at 23-25%.

Regional Variations and Cultural Influences

The workshop underscored that cultural attitudes towards risk, past disaster experiences, and local regulations significantly impact insurance adoption. Understanding these regional nuances is essential for effective risk management and enhancing community resilience against natural disasters.

By identifying the driving factors behind regional differences in insurance uptake, policymakers can tailor strategies to meet the specific needs of each area, ultimately promoting more resilient communities in the face of climate change.

The 14th REKLIM Scientific Workshop was a vital platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange, fostering innovative approaches to climate resilience and risk management. The insights gained will continue to inform research and policy efforts in addressing the challenges posed by climate change and natural hazards across Germany.

To know more you can download the presentation PDF here