We investigate the effects of crop production systems and climate change on the terrestrial and aquatic biodiversity in agricultural fields and their surrounding natural sites. Based on the findings, we develop strategies to maintain and promote important agroecosystem functions.

We analyze the residues of anthropogenic substances (e.g., pesticides and heavy metals) and natural toxins (e.g., mycotoxins) using various analytical techniques such as LC/MS, GC/MS, ICP-OES. For identification of undesirable effects, we investigate residual content of pullutants in agricultural soils and small water bodies, sediments and along food chains and link them to agronomic and biological observations. Our aim is to develop avoidance strategies and deliver guidance to improve agricultural practices.

As the basis of our food production, soil is essential for humanity. It is used to grow plant-based food, produce feed for livestock and provide biogenic raw materials. Hence, the protection of soil and the preservation of its fertility are essential to provide food security. Our research results on the diversity and ecosystem functions of soil micro- and macro-organisms contribute to their protection and beneficial promotion in diverse farming systems and habitats.

Small water bodies are a habitat for common, rare and/or threatened species. As a networking element and place of retreat in a landscape dominated by agriculture, these water bodies represent important hotspots of biodiversity. We examine small standing and flowing water bodies as well as groundwater near the surface for pesticide residues, nitrate and phosphate inputs. In addition, we evaluate the ecological status of water bodies by examining chemical data and by investigating indicative aquatic organisms in order to protect our water bodies and their flora and fauna.

Native beneficial insects and arachnids reduce harmful organisms through their natural way of life. Native beneficial insects and arachnids reduce harmful organisms through their natural way of life. Since they can be affected by the application of plant protection products, we evaluate these effects using the scientific results from the approval procedure documents of plant protection products provided. As a result, we suggest the labelling categories "not harmful", "slightly harmful" and "harmful". These results are available publicly on the internet. In this way, we support the farmers in better protecting the biodiversity of all non-target organisms.

We investigate the potential of different cropping systems (e.g. agroforestry) and field management practices such as protective and flowering strips or natural landscape elements (e.g. hedge rows and small water bodies) for water and carbon storages as well as for greenhouse gas reductions. The aim is to adapt agricultural management to the changing climate and to strengthen the contribution of agriculture to climate protection.