Research group Climate Protection and Climate Change Adaptation

Coordination: Andreas Schaumberger and Fritz Christian, MA

Focus of the research group Climate Protection and Climate Change Adaptation

The Climate Protection and Climate Change Adaptation research group develops scientifically sound and practical solutions for a sustainable agriculture. The focus is on the impacts of climate change, climate change adaptation, the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, agricultural meteorology, and climate-resilient management systems in crop production and animal husbandry. 

Shaping agriculture for the future

Agriculture is at the heart of the climate crisis – both as a victim and as a key player in shaping a sustainable future. The Climate Protection & Climate Change Adaptation at HBLFA Raumberg-Gumpenstein develops scientifically sound and practice-oriented strategies to make agricultural operations more resilient to the consequences of climate change – while simultaneously strengthening their potential for climate protection.

Understanding climate change – developing measures

Increasing weather extremes, altered growing seasons, and new challenges in crop production and animal husbandry necessitate innovative adaptation strategies. Our work is based on agrometeorological studies, modeling, and long-term practical observations. From this, we derive targeted measures for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and conserving fossil resources.

From knowledge to implementation - practical solutions

Our work focuses on climate-resilient farming systems, the development of regional adaptation strategies, and close collaboration with farms, authorities, and scientific partners. Our research is interdisciplinary, solution-oriented, and directly applicable to consulting, teaching, and agricultural practice.

Information platforms for practice and research on climate protection and climate change adaptation

The HBLFA Raumberg-Gumpenstein provides comprehensive information platforms – both for climate protection and for climate change adaptation in agriculture.
At its core is a detailed overview of practically relevant measures in the areas of crop production, animal husbandry, farm management, and storage management. These are supplemented by:

• Editorially curated link collections with practical examples
• scientific articles (peer-reviewed)
• Podcast episodes on current research topics
• Slide sets to support teaching and consulting

The research group aims to address climate protection, climate change adaptation & agricultural meteorology

We want to show ways in which farms can actively contribute to climate protection – and at the same time strengthen their resilience to the effects of climate change.
With our work, we contribute to shaping a sustainable future for agriculture in Austria and beyond.

Important publications on the topics of climate protection and climate change adaptation:

• Our brochure "Climate protection in agriculture"
• Our educational and advisory tools on the topic of "climate change adaptation in agriculture"
• Our brochure "30 recommendations for dairy farms on greenhouse gas reduction and sustainability" 

Further information can also be found in the publication "The Austrian Strategy for Adaptation to Climate Change 2024 - Part 1 - Context" by the Federal Ministry.