Geographical relationships play an important role for understanding processes in the landscape, its structure and functions on different geographical levels, and for the regulation of sector activities. Departing in the environmental conditions or problems, the group focuses on the relationships between land use, management and regulation of the landscape. Spatial dynamics, location, time and scale are central issues in these studies. Research and advisory tasks are based upon integrated concepts of landscape development - including driving forces and pressures as well as impacts on nature and environment. Furthermore, development and implementation of concepts supporting sustainable development are part of the group's engagement too.  

Present research fields

• The role of agriculture in landscape management
• Scenario analyses and models of land use development and impacts
• Indicator concepts and systems in relation to sustainability impact assessment, landscapes and biodiversity
• Regional landscape history - approaches and methods
• Land use and landscape stability and fragmentation
• Models for estimating  agricultural and other emissions in a national, regional and local perspective
• Multifunctional farming strategies, rural development and environmental practises
• Environment and health in a geographical perspective
• The planning aspects in the Water Framework Directive

Important tools and methods build on the use of GIS and (geo)statistics, spatial modelling and remote sensing.