On 19 March 2024, Germany’s Federal Environment Minister appointed 16 scientists to the newly established Scientific Advisory Board for Natural Climate Protection (WBNK) to provide independent scientific advice to the federal government and support the implementation of the Federal Action Programme for Natural Climate Protection (ANK).
Among the appointed experts is Prof. Dr. Mariele Evers, UNESCO Chair in Human-Water Systems at the University of Bonn. In this advisory capacity, the role involves contributing expertise in eco-hydrology, water resources management, and human-water systems to help shape scientific recommendations that connect ecosystem protection with climate policy.
The WBNK serves as an interdisciplinary scientific body advising the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV) on maximizing the climate mitigation and adaptation potential of natural and near-natural ecosystems, including forests, floodplains, peatlands, soils, waters, coastal areas, and urban green spaces. The advisory board’s mandate encompasses the evaluation of the 69 measures within the ANK and suggestions for future development.
This appointment highlights the importance of integrated water-climate perspectives in shaping natural climate action. Research on hydrological extremes, river basin management, and sustainable water governance brings valuable insight to assessments of ecosystem functions such as carbon storage, water retention, and biodiversity support.
The ANK, introduced by the federal government to link climate protection with biodiversity and ecosystem preservation, aims to enhance ecosystem resilience and climate performance while addressing climate impacts such as floods and droughts. Given the interconnected challenges of climate change and ecosystem degradation, this participation strengthens the evidence base guiding policy and the implementation of nature-based solutions in Germany, underscoring the growing role of science-policy collaboration in ensuring decisions reflect both ecological complexity and practical relevance.