pollutants

News on Chemicals and Health

German Environmental Survey celebrates 40th anniversary

a colorful picture with many different faces

In 1985, the first German Environmental Survey on Health (GerES) was launched. Since then, this series of surveys has been investigating the exposure of the German population to pollutants. The data are used to inform the public. It also provides an important scientific basis for policy decisions on environment, health, and chemicals. Here’s a timeline of the survey's major milestones. read more

Water

Pollutant emissions into surface waters

Picture from river in Germany

Surface water quality was considerably improved in recent decades in Germany. Nevertheless, hazardous substances are still emitted into surface waters. Reducing emissions is mandatory. Where do the pollutants originate? Where are emission hotspots? Which measures are efficient? In order to answer these questions, integrated modelling tools have to be applied. read more

The Umweltbundesamt

For our environment