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Climate warming
and global change (socioeconomic,
political, demographic, cultural change) are the
greatest challenges of the 21st century.
Processes behind these changes need to be analysed.
Their possible impact must be known to develop
strategies for adaptation or even for mitigation.
All natural and socioeconomic processes impair
ecosystems and ecosystem function. Ecosystems in
turn supply ecosystem services for economy and
social welfare. The survival of future generations
strongly depends on the integrity of the ecosystems
(sustainability). Analyses of trends and driving
forces require long term research. Thus, ecological
long term research is a prerequisite for
sustainable development.
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