The year 2023 marks a special milestone for the University of Graz: the Wegener Center for Climate and Global Change is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Since its founding in 2003, the centre has grown into an internationally recognised institution that addresses the most pressing questions of our time — climate change, its impacts, and the measures needed for a sustainable future.
Named after the famous meteorologist and geoscientist Alfred Wegener, who revolutionised science with his theory of continental drift, the Wegener Center stands for interdisciplinary cutting-edge research. It brings together experts from the fields of climate research, meteorology, geophysics, economics and social sciences to understand the complex interrelationships of global change and to develop solutions.
Looking back on 20 years of success
Over the past two decades, the Wegener Center has initiated and carried out numerous groundbreaking research projects. Particularly noteworthy are its work on global climate modelling, the analysis of extreme weather events and the development of strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The centre's research findings have not only enriched the scientific community but have also provided important impetus for policymakers and society at large.
A particular highlight is the close collaboration with international partners such as the European Space Agency (ESA), the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). These collaborations have helped the Wegener Center make a significant contribution to global climate research.
Research with societal relevance
The Wegener Center has made it its mission not only to investigate the scientific foundations of climate change, but also to develop concrete solutions to the challenges of the 21st century. The focus is on topics such as the energy transition, sustainable urban development, and adaptation to the consequences of climate change. Communicating its research findings to the public is of particular importance to the centre, in order to sharpen awareness of the urgency of action.
A look to the future
Even after 20 years, the Wegener Center remains true to its mission: to create the scientific foundation for a sustainable and liveable future. With new research projects, innovative approaches, and strong international networks, the centre will continue to play a leading role in climate research.
The 20th anniversary is not only an occasion to celebrate, but also an opportunity to pause and emphasise the importance of climate research for future generations. The University of Graz and the Wegener Center look back with pride on the past two decades and forward with confidence — knowing that the challenges are great, but so too are the opportunities to make a difference.
Congratulations to the Wegener Center on 20 years of excellent research and commitment to our planet!
