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Extreme precipitation events pose a great threat to society, the economy, and the environment with devastating consequences like floods and landslides. Improved forecasting of this hazard, combined with adequate Early Warning Systems, can thus support the mitigation of the associated negative impacts. Here, we propose new forecasting products that substantially improve predictions of extreme precipitation events at different timescales, from short- to medium- and extended-range forecasts. Our study focuses on forecasting extreme rainfall in Calabria, south Italy. This region, located in the central Mediterranean, has a complex and abruptly varying topography that poses additional challenges in precipitation formation and forecasting. For this work we use data from three sources; observational precipitation from the EOBS dataset, modelled atmospheric fields from ERA5 reanalysis, and forecasted atmospheric fields from ECMWF reforecasts for 1 up to 45 days lead time. Based on our analysis we show that different forecasting horizons require different forecasting products. More specifically, bias-correcting the precipitation forecasts for short- to medium-range lead times provides the most informative outputs to end-users. For extended-range forecasts though, this method is not sufficient, as it cannot outperform the reference score based on climatological information. For such extended lead times, it is beneficial to use the large-scale weather variability to infer reliable information about extreme precipitation. This can be accomplished by connecting Mediterranean-wide weather patterns, with the probability of extreme precipitation in Calabria. We present the benefits of the methods, based on long-term statistical analysis using a range of indicators, such as the Brier skill score, and the reliability diagram.

Surface atmospheric circulations strongly influence the day-to-day weather of a region. Their anomalous persistence over longer time periods can prompt the occurrence of events like droughts and heatwaves. As our planet continues to warm, an increase in the frequency and intensity of these events over the European continent is expected. Using an automated method to classify surface synoptic patterns and data from a subset of GCMs from the high-emission scenario from CMIP6, we find significant future changes in the frequency of zonal atmospheric circulations during the projected summers (JJA). The likely decrease in the frequency of westerly advection results in an increase in easterly synoptic configurations over Central Europe resulting in more dry continental air masses moving through the region.In this work, we investigate whether the future change in the zonal surface circulation types relates to predetermined weather regimes over Europe. We address this question by performing the attribution of the changes in some zonal surface circulation types. We focus on the role of the changing large-scale atmospheric circulations and their likelihood in historical and future climate conditions that we define using CMIP6 data from 1979 to 2100. We employ analogs of circulation to find the most similar patterns to the target synoptic configuration in both[1] climatological periods. These analogs are computed from geopotential height at 500hPa (Z500) over the Euro-Atlantic region. We then compute the shifts in the probability distributions, persistence and predictability of these events. We estimate the significance of the changes in the mid-tropospheric configurations that relate to the changing easterly and westerly surface atmospheric patterns.

Automated classifications of atmospheric circulations are a well-known tool to characterize large-scale patterns that predominantly determine day-to-day weather variations. Through its potential influence on the relative frequency of circulation patterns, global warming can also enhance or mitigate the occurrence of extreme weather events.Here, we use a subset of 22 CMIP6 global climate models (GCMs) to assess their ability to capture these recurrent circulation patterns and their implication for the European climate and its projected changes.We investigate links between synoptic circulations and short-term meteorological drought events that span one month. We employ the automated Jenkinson-Collison classification to determine daily atmospheric features based on mean sea-level pressure. We compute the conditional probability of dry days related to each circulation type. Furthermore, we confirm the influence of these patterns on the occurrence of dry months by computing the monthly relative frequency anomalies of the synoptic circulations given months where the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) was below minus 1. We evaluate the ability of the historical runs of global climate models (GCMs) to reproduce the observed features from the ERA5 reanalyses over the 1961-1990 reference period. Links between the mean directional flow characteristics of the circulation types and the dry days and months are well represented by most GCMs. The most robust relationships were found for the anticyclonic, easterly, and low flow types. These circulations are generally associated with a lack of precipitation and therefore show higher than average occurrences during dry months.

The Mediterranean region frequently experiences extreme precipitation events with devastating consequences for the affected societies, economies, and environment. Being able to provide reliable and skillful predictions of such events is crucial for mitigating their adverse impacts and related risks. One important part of the risk mitigation chain is the sub-seasonal predictability of such extremes, with information provided at such timescales supporting a range of actions, as for example warn decision-makers, and preposition materials and equipment.This work focuses on the predictability of large-scale atmospheric flow patterns connected to extreme precipitation events in the Mediterranean. Previous research has identified strong connections between localized extremes and large-scale patterns. This is promising to provide useful information at sub-seasonal timescales. For such lead times, the Numerical Weather Prediction models are more skillful in predicting large-scale patterns than localized extremes. Here, we analyze the usefulness of these connections at sub-seasonal timescales by using the ECMWF extended-range forecasts. We aim at quantifying related benefits for the different areas in the Mediterranean region and providing insights that are of interest to the operational community.Initial results suggest that the ECMWF forecasts provide skillful information in the predictability of large-scale patterns up to about 15 days lead time. Large-scale patterns over the Mediterranean based on anomalies of sea level pressure (color shades) and geopotential at 500 hPa (contours) (Figure adapted from Mastrantonas et al, 2020)

Circulation classifications are a simple tool given their ability to portray aspects of day-to-day weather. As we start facing a dynamical response in general circulation patterns due to anthropogenic global warming, circulation changes can enhance or mitigate regional and local behaviour of extreme weather events.An automatic weather type (WT) classification, developed by Jenkinson-Collison, is used to evaluate past and future changes in seasonal frequencies of synoptic weather patterns over central and western Europe. A set of three reanalyses and eight Global Climate Models (GCMs) from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) are used, based on daily Sea Level Pressure (SLP) data.Discrepancies are found in some of the model outputs as some fall short of capturing interannual variabilities when compared to reanalyses. Cyclonic and westerly circulations tend to be overestimated, whereas anticyclonic are underestimated.Based on the historical data and Shared Socioeconomic Pathway 5 (SSP5-8.5) scenario, the evaluated trends suggest more robust signals during the summer half-years given their lesser synoptic-scale variability. During this season, increasing frequencies are found for the WT characterized by weak pressure gradients, mostly at the expense of decreasing frequencies of the westerlies. Our findings indicate that the time of emergence of these signals only occurs towards the end of the 21st century, even in such a high-emission scenario.

Agricultural soil (Ap-horizon, 0–20 cm) samples were collected from 33 European countries as part of the GEMAS (GEochemical Mapping of Agricultural and grazing land Soil) soil-mapping project. The Mg data derived from total concentrations (XRF) and two acid digestion methods, aqua regia (AR) and Mobile Metal Ion (MMI®), were used to provide an overview of its spatial distribution in soil at the continental-scale. Magnesium is one of the most abundant elements in the Earth's crust and essential nutrient for plants and animals and its presence in soil is, therefore, important for soil quality evaluation. In this study, the geochemical behaviour of Mg in European agricultural soil was investigated in relation to a variety of soil parent materials, climatic zones, and landscapes. The chemical composition of soil reflects mostly the primary mineralogy of the source bedrock, and the superimposed effects of pre- and post-depositional chemical weathering, controlled by element mobility and formation of secondary phases such as clays. Low Mg concentrations in agricultural soil occur in regions with quartz-rich glacial sediments (Poland, Baltic States, N. Germany), and in soil developed on quartz-rich sandstone parent materials (e.g., central Sweden). High Mg concentrations occur in soil developed over mafic lithologies such as ophiolite belts and in carbonate-rich regions, including karst areas. The maximum extent of the last glaciation is well defined by a Mg concentration break, which is marked by low Mg concentrations in Fennoscandia and north-central Europe, and high Mg concentrations in Mediterranean region. Lithology of parent materials seems to play a key role in the Mg nutritional status of agricultural soil at the European scale. Influence from agricultural practice and use of fertilisers appears to be subordinate. Comparison of the continental-scale spatial distribution of Mg in agricultural soil by using the results from three analytical methods (XRF, AR and MMI®) provides complementary information about Mg mobility and its residence time in soil. Thus, allowing evaluation of soil weathering grade and impact of land use exploitation.

Circulation classifications are a simple tool given their ability to portray aspects of day-to-day weather. As we start facing a dynamical response in general circulation patterns due to anthropogenic global warming, circulation changes can enhance or mitigate regional and local behaviour of extreme weather events. A weather type (WT) automatic classification, developed by Jenkinson-Collison (JC), is used to evaluate past and future changes in the seasonal frequencies of synoptic weather patterns over central and western Europe. A set of three reanalyses and four Global Climate Models (GCMs) from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) are used, based on daily Sea Level Pressure (SLP) data. Discrepancies are found in the model outputs as they fall short of capturing interannual variabilities when compared to the reanalyses. Cyclonic and westerly circulations tend to be overestimated, whereas anticyclonics are underestimated. The projected frequencies, based on the Shared Socioeconomic Pathway 5 (SSP5) experiment, suggest significant increasing trends for unclassified WT (characterized by weak pressure gradients) during their summer half-year persistency for the coming 21st century. Winter trends indicate a surge in westerlies and a reduction in the events of cyclonic circulations and easterly flows. The results of this study support evidence of emergent changes in the occurrence of major synoptic configurations over Europe.

The Mediterranean region is an area with half a billion population, about 10 percent contribution to the world’s GDP, and locations of global natural, historical and cultural significance. In this context, natural hazards in the area have the potential for severe negative impacts on society, economy, and environment. Some of the most frequent and devastating natural hazards that affect the Mediterranean relate to extreme precipitation events causing flash floods and landslides. Thus, given their adverse consequences, it is of immense importance to better understand their statistical characteristics and connection to large-scale atmospheric patterns. Such advances can substantially support the accurate and early identification of these extreme events, improve early warning systems, and contribute to mitigating related risks. This work focuses on the characteristics and spatiotemporal variability of extreme precipitation events of large spatial coverage across the Mediterranean region. The study uses the ERA5 dataset, the latest, state of the art, reanalysis dataset from Copernicus/ECMWF. Initially, exploratory analysis is performed to assess the different characteristics at various subdomains within the study area. Furthermore, composite analysis is used to understand the connection of extreme events with large-scale atmospheric patterns. Finally, the Empirical Orthogonal Function (EOF) analysis is implemented to quantify the importance of weather regimes with respect to the frequency of extreme precipitation events. Preliminary results indicate that there is a spatial division in the occurrence of identified events. Winter and autumn are the seasons of the highest frequency of extreme precipitation for the east and west Mediterranean respectively. Troughs and cut-off lows in the lower and middle-level troposphere have a strong association with such extreme events, and the effect is modulated by other parameters, such as local orography. Results of this work are in accordance with previous studies in the region and provide information that can be utilized by future research for improving the predictability of such events in the medium- and extended-range forecasts. This work is part of the Climate Advanced Forecasting of sub-seasonal Extremes (CAFE) project. The project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie grant agreement No 813844.

The Mediterranean region is strongly affected by extreme precipitation events (EPEs), sometimes leading to severe negative impacts on society, economy, and the environment. Understanding such natural hazards and their drivers is essential to mitigate related risks. Here, EPEs over the Mediterranean between 1979 and 2019 are analysed, using ERA5, the latest reanalysis dataset from ECMWF. EPEs are determined based on the 99th percentile of their daily distribution (P99). The different EPE characteristics are assessed, based on seasonality and spatiotemporal dependencies. To better understand their connection to large‐scale atmospheric flow patterns, Empirical Orthogonal Function analysis and subsequent non‐hierarchical K‐means clustering are used to quantify the importance of weather regimes to EPE frequency. The analysis is performed for different variables, depicting atmospheric variability in the lower and middle troposphere. Results show a clear spatial division in EPE occurrence, with winter and autumn being the seasons of highest EPE frequency for the eastern and western Mediterranean, respectively. There is a high degree of temporal dependencies with 20% of the EPEs (median value based on all studied grid cells), occurring up to 1 week after a preceding P99 event at the same location. Local orography is a key modulator of the spatiotemporal connections and substantially enhances the probability of co‐occurrence of EPEs even for distant locations. The clustering clearly demonstrates the prevalence of distinct synoptic‐scale atmospheric conditions during the occurrence of EPEs for different locations within the region. Results indicate that clustering, based on a combination of sea level pressure (SLP) and geopotential height at 500 hPa (Z500), can increase the conditional probability of EPEs by more than three (3) times (median value for all grid cells) from the nominal probability of 1% for the P99 EPEs. Such strong spatiotemporal dependencies and connections to large‐scale patterns can support extended‐range forecasts., This study analyses the spatiotemporal characteristics of extreme precipitation events over the Mediterranean, and their connection to large‐scale atmospheric flow patterns. It is shown that by conditioning the extremes based on the atmospheric variability in the low‐ and mid‐troposphere, their probability increases more than threefold, when using nine clusters to group all the synoptic daily patterns. This finding can support extended‐range forecasts, as for such lead times the NWP models are more skillful in predicting large‐scale patterns than localized extremes., Marie Skłodowska‐Curie, European Union's Horizon 2020

Extreme precipitation events (EPEs) in the Ore Mountains (OM) were studied based on daily precipitation observations from 1960 to 2013. The OM are a low mountain range situated in the Czech-German border area. The Weather Extremity Index (WEI) resulting from an event-adjusted evaluation technique was used to select 54 EPEs of 1-10 days duration. The WEI combines rarity, spatial extent, and duration of an event in one index and provides quantitative information about its extremity. Based on their duration, the 54 EPEs were classified into short (1-2 days) and long events (3-10 days), showing different characteristics and trend behaviour. The EPEs (including the three strongest events) occurred most frequently in late spring and summer. The three strongest EPEs as well as EPEs, which occurred during the winter half-year (WHY EPEs), affected comparatively larger areas; with WHY EPEs being generally longer. EPE frequency does not show any significant trend during the study period; it fluctuated mostly similar to summer half-year EPEs. The most frequent weather type (according to two versions of the German Grosswetterlagen concept) related to EPEs was Trough over Central Europe (TrM). Nevertheless, many differences were noticed between the original (manual) catalogue and its automated version (SynopVis-Grosswetterlagen); the later able to better reflect the weather types associated with 54 EPEs.

Given the dimensions of the Amazon basin (7.5 million km2), its internal dynamics, increasing anthropogenic strain on this large biome, and its global role as one of two continental biospheric tipping elements, it appears crucial to have data-based knowledge on carbon and nitrogen concentrations and pools as well as on possible intra-annual dynamics. We quantified carbon (Ct, Corg), nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) concentrations in litter (ORG) and mineral soil material (TOP 0–20 cm, BOT 30–50 cm) of upland (terra firme) oxisols across Amazonas state and present a first pool calculation. Data are based on triplicate seasonal sampling at 29 sites (forest and post-forest) within the binational project EcoRespira-Amazon (ERA). Repeated sampling increased data accuracy and allows for interpreting intra-annual (seasonal) and climate-change related dynamics. Extreme conditions between the dry season in 2016 and the subsequent wet season (ENSO-related) show differences more clearly. Median CNS in the Amazon basin TOP soils (Ct 1.9, Corg 1.6, N 0.15, S 0.03 wt-% under forest canopy) as well as Corg / N ratios show concentrations similar to European soils (FOREGS, GEMAS). TOP Ct concentrations ranged from 1.02 to 3.29 wt-% (medianForest 2.17 wt-%; medianPost-Forest 1.75 wt-%), N from 0.088 to 0.233 wt-% (medianForest 0.17 wt-%; medianPost-Forest 0.09 wt-%) and S from 0.012 to 0.051 wt.-% (medianForest 0.03 wt.-%; medianPost-Forest 0.02 wt-%). Corg / N ratios ranged from 6 to 14 (median 10). A first pool calculation (hectare-based) illustrates forest versus post-forest changes. The elements are unevenly distributed in the basin with generally higher CNS values in the central part (Amazonas graben) as compared to the southern part of the basin. Deforestation and drought conditions lead to C and N losses – within 50 years after deforestation, C and N losses average 10 to 15 %. Regional climate change with increased drought will likely speed up carbon and nitrogen losses.

We present Sr-87/Sr-86 isotope ratios for similar to 1200 selected soil samples, collected by the GEMAS consortium from grazing (Gr) and agricultural (Ap) soils in Europe with the aim to better understand the strontium isotope distribution in the bioavailable fraction of the top-soil and its potential for provenancing applications. Spatial analysis shows that there is a clear distinction between coastal (100 km) samples in their variance and that this variance is mirrored in the sodium concentration, suggesting an important but highly variable contribution from seaspray. We present two Sr-87/Sr-86 maps at 25 km x 25 km scale: one based solely on the measured data using a classical kriging approach and one based on a Random Forest model using complementary GEMAS data to predict the strontium isotope composition at the remaining 3000+ GEMAS sampling locations, including appropriate uncertainty assessment. Using a forensic Bayesian likelihood ratio approach, a tool was developed in R to create provenancing likelihood ratio maps. The maps delineate areas of high and low likelihood and allow investigators to direct their resources to areas of interest. For actual forensic case work either the measured or the modelled data can be used as reference data for the overall distribution of Sr-87/Sr-86 values in Europe. (C) 2019 Elsevier B.V. All tights reserved.

Tropospheric ozone (O3) acts as greenhouse gas and air pollutant. Over the last 100 years, tropospheric O3 levels increased above background by factor 2.5 in the northern hemisphere and by factor 3–4 across Europe. The gas poses a potential risk to forest ecosystems in many mountain areas. There, O3 concentrations result from long-range transport and are influenced by removal processes (dry deposition, gas phase and cloud removal, reduction on wet aerosols). Most trend studies analyzed annual-mean concentrations. We focus on winter O3 trends at high altitudes in the German/Czech Erzgebirge (period 1981–2020) to avoid major noise from photochemical reactions and to better explain recent O3 behavior in Central Europe. Hourly air quality and meteorological data from four stations (Carlsfeld, CAR; Fichtelberg, FIB; Schwartenberg, SWB; Zinnwald, ZIW) were used to analyze O3 trends. The data can explain the complex O3 formation and removal behavior. Three distinct periods of O3-concentration trends can be discerned: i) Until the late 1980s, characterized by relatively low O3 concentrations. ii) Dramatic transformation in the 1990s with changing air pollution in Central Europe. Strong O3-concentration increase at FIB is corroborated by data from CAR and ZIW. iii) Stabilization as of 1997/98, when O3 concentrations remained at the same level for all four stations, despite general regional air pollution decrease. Key results are: a) Winter O3 trends mainly depend on O3 concentration of air masses transported to the stations and on the O3-removal potential (ORP) of clouds, not on local formation processes. b) ORP differs between clouds and fog, depending on droplet chemical composition. Fog from the North Bohemian Basin showed the highest ORP due to reaction with liquid phase S(IV). However, O3 reactions with O2− in fog droplets showed high ORP, too, depending on cloud-water pH values and NOx concentrations. c) So-called “Bohemian fog” decreased, and with it related ORP, while that of clouds from westerly and northwesterly air masses remained nearly unchanged since 1997/98. d) Decreasing ORP in clouds and fog (= higher O3 concentration) oppose decreasing O3 concentrations in westerly air masses. Both effects lead to unchanged O3 levels in the Erzgebirge since 1997/98.

Soils act as sources and sinks for greenhouse gases (GHG) such as carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), methane (CH 4 ), and nitrous oxide (N 2 O). Since both storage and emission capacities may be large, precise quantifications are needed to obtain reliable global budgets that are necessary for land-use management (agriculture, forestry), global change and for climate research. This paper discusses exclusively the soil emission-related processes and their influencing parameters. It reviews soil emission studies involving the most important land-cover types and climate zones and introduces important measuring systems for soil emissions. It addresses current shortcomings and the obvious bias towards northern hemispheric data. When using a conservative average of 300 mg CO 2 e m −2 h −1 (based on our literature review), this leads to global annual net soil emissions of ≥350 Pg CO 2 e (CO 2 e = CO 2 equivalents = total effect of all GHG normalized to CO 2 ). This corresponds to roughly 21% of the global soil C and N pools. For comparison, 33.4 Pg CO 2 are being emitted annually by fossil fuel combustion and the cement industry.

A successful piece of applied research will not only influence the related problem perception within the scientific community, but also lead to much better understanding of a complex challenge, including the delivery of solutions. Ideally it may contribute significantly to reducing possible risk situations for people and/or the natural environment. In short, a successful study will have a broader impact beyond the sphere of science. Planning, timing, funding, networking, communication, and interdisciplinarity are identified as key aspects for a successful project and are being examined in their scope and boundary conditions, while not neglecting the particular role of local and regional people and authorities. Defining what makes a successful environmental geochemical study is clearly based upon experience and evidence found, and not upon any particular theoretical concept. Here, experience is drawn from the outcome of many projects and specifically first-hand from the complex ARSENEX project in Minas Gerais, Brazil. Against the backdrop of both perceived and real arsenic contamination of environmental compartments, including local people, all subsequent project steps and proposals were set up using a three-prong approach that sought to a) understand the processes, b) educate and inform the public and all other stakeholders and c) remediate the situation.

Increasing land transformation in the Amazon basin, from forest to post-forest usage such as pastureland, agriculture and agroforestry, triggers significant changes in hydrology, soil fertility and regional climatology. However, relatively little is known about Amazon basin soil chemistry in general and about its possible alteration with recent land-use change. We present robust pedogeochemical data for 65 elements and oxides, and evidence for modification due to recent deforestation and post-forest land use on upland soils in Amazonas state, Brazil. Differences emerge in median element concentrations between these two land-cover types, and between central and southern parts of the basin. These new data, a product of the bi-national EcoRespira-Amazon (ERA) project, are based on triplicate sampling under different seasonal conditions at 29 sites, representing ca. 740,000 km2 and average annual meteorological conditions. Mineral soil samples (TOP: 0–20 cm; BOT: 30–50 cm) characterize the active upper rhizosphere. Data were obtained with very tight quality control from sampling to analysis (following GEMAS protocols), using various overlapping analytical methods. Some major, minor and trace element concentrations deviate strongly from established world soil averages, including the recent PEGS2. Geological (lithological) and weathering boundary conditions define the primary soil chemical signal. This is overprinted by biogeochemical forces (ecosystem feedbacks), and recently by human intervention (change of land cover, deforestation). The general assumption of depleted tropical soils is not justified as such – a more differentiated view is needed, since carbon and macronutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorous, albeit not always plant-available, do often occur in relatively high concentrations (median values TOP: 1.9, 0.15 and 0.02 wt%). Calcium, magnesium and potassium are truly depleted (median values TOP: 0.025, 0.095 and 0.065 wt%), albeit with noticeable variance. Trace elements, from silver to zirconium and including REE, show highly differentiated responses. Most are relatively enriched in post-forest soils; a subtle signal that is interpreted as reduced plant-soil interaction. BOT concentrations are generally higher than those in TOP soil, reflecting weathering conditions and biogeochemical cycling – with interesting exceptions (Br, Cd, Rb).

Phosphorus is unique, given its characteristic of being essential for all life on Earth. The element is non-substitutable and finite in the form of highly concentrated phosphate-rock deposits. Thus, humankind should strive to utilize this resource in the most-efficient and sustainable manner. Losses, as well as overlooked opportunities, can be found all along the supply chain in various forms and to distinct extents. Avoiding these by closing the loops all along the supply chain is a key approach for keeping phosphorus flows available for economic use while reducing negative environmental impacts such as eutrophication. Changes to the current, mostly linear approach require multidimensional innovations that address products, processes, structures, and decision-makers along the supply chain as well as societal stakeholders. Our work focuses on the mining phase, covering extraction and beneficiation, whereby we discuss innovation potential in the contexts of i) improving P2O5 recovery, ii) utilizing waste, and iii) recovering by-products within the boundaries of sustainable development as generalized strategies on the macro level. Furthermore, we show that there is no "one-size-fits-all" solution to overcome current and future challenges within phosphate-rock mining, as the geological composition and processing of ores differs fundamentally among global deposits. Therefore, we perform, based on previously unpublished primary data, an economic breakdown of production-cost structures covering 85 active phosphate-rock mines and show significant differences between the two main deposit types (i.e., igneous and sedimentary), underground and open-pit mining as well as within each type.

The demand for ‘high-tech’ element resources (e.g., rare earth elements, lithium, platinum group elements) has increased with their continued consumption in developed countries and the emergence of developing economies. To provide a sound knowledge base for future generations, it is necessary to identify the spatial distribution of critical elements at a broad-scale, and to delineate areas for follow-up surveys. Subsequently, this knowledge can be used to study possible environmental consequences of the increased use of these resources. In this paper, three critical industrial elements (Sb, W, Li) from low-sampling density geochemical mapping at the continental-scale are presented. The geochemical distribution and spatial patterns have been obtained from agricultural soil samples (Ap-horizon, 0–20 cm; N = 2108 samples) collected at a density of 1 site per 2500 km2 and analysed by ICP-MS after a hot aqua regia digestion as part of the GEMAS (GEochemical Mapping of Agricultural and grazing land Soil) soil-mapping project in 33 European countries. Most of the geochemical maps show exclusively natural background element concentrations with minor, or without, anthropogenic influence. The maximum extent of the last glaciation is marked as a discrete element concentration break, and a distinct difference occurs in element concentration levels between the soil of northern and southern Europe, most likely an effect of soil genesis, age and weathering. The Sb, W and Li concentrations in soil provide a general overview of element spatial distribution in relation to complexity of the underlying bedrock and element mobility in the surface environment at the continental-scale. The chemical composition of agricultural soil represents largely the primary mineralogy of the source bedrock, the effects of pre- and post-depositional chemical weathering, formation of secondary products, such as clays, and element mobility, either by leaching or mineral sorting. Observed geochemical patterns of Li, W and Sb can be often linked with known mineralisation as recorded in the ProMine Mineral Database, where elements in question occur either as main or secondary resources. Anthropogenic impact has only been identified locally, predominantly in the vicinity of large urban agglomerations. Unexplained high element concentrations may potentially indicate new sources for high-tech elements and should be investigated at a more detailed scale.

Aerosol particle number size distributions (size range 0.003–10 μm) in the urban atmosphere of Augsburg (Germany) were examined with respect to the governing anthropogenic sources and meteorological factors. The two-year average particle number concentration between November 2004 and November 2006 was 12 200 cm−3, i.e. similar to previous observations in other European cities. A seasonal analysis yielded twice the total particle number concentrations in winter as compared to summer as consequence of more frequent inversion situations and enhanced particulate emissions. The diurnal variations of particle number were shaped by a remarkable maximum in the morning during the peak traffic hours. After a mid-day decrease along with the onset of vertical mixing, an evening concentration maximum could frequently be observed, suggesting a re-stratification of the urban atmosphere. Overall, the mixed layer height turned out to be the most influential meteorological parameter on the particle size distribution. Its influence was even greater than that of the geographical origin of the prevailing synoptic-scale air mass. Size distributions below 0.8 μm were also measured downstream of a thermodenuder (temperature: 300 °C), allowing to retrieve the volume concentration of non-volatile compounds. The balance of particle number upstream and downstream of the thermodenuder suggests that practically all particles >12 nm contain a non-volatile core while additional nucleation of particles smaller than 6 nm could be observed after the thermodenuder as an interfering artifact of the method. The good correlation between the non-volatile volume concentration and an independent measurement of the aerosol absorption coefficient (R2=0.9) suggests a close correspondence of the refractory and light-absorbing particle fractions. Using the "summation method", an average diameter ratio of particles before and after volatilisation could be determined as a function of particle size. The results indicated that particles >60 nm contain a significantly higher fraction of non-volatile compounds, most likely black carbon, than particles

A reliable overview of measured concentrations of TC, TN and TS, TOC/TN ratios, and their regional distribution patterns in agricultural soil at the continental scale and based on measured data has been missing - despite much previous work on local and the European scales. Detection and mapping of natural (ambient) background element concentrations and variability in Europe was the focus of this work. While total C and S data had been presented in the GEMAS atlas already, this work delivers more precise (lower limit of determination) and fully quantitative data, and for the first time high-quality TN data. Samples were collected from the uppermost 20 cm of ploughed soil (Ap horizon) at 2108 sites with an even sampling density of one site per 2500 km2 for one individual land-use class (agricultural) across Europe (33 countries). Laboratory-independent quality control from sampling to analysis guaranteed very good data reliability and accuracy. Total carbon concentrations ranged from 0.37 to 46.3 wt% (median: 2.20 wt%) and TOC from 0.40 to 46.0 wt% (median: 1.80 wt%). Total nitrogen ranged from 0.018 to 2.64 wt% (median: 0.169 wt%) and TS from 0.008 to 9.74 wt% (median: 0.034 wt%), all with large variations in most countries. The TOC/TN ratios ranged from 1.8 to 252 (median: 10.1), with the largest variation in Spain and the smallest in some eastern European countries. Distinct and repetitive patterns emerge at the European scale, reflecting mostly geogenic and longer-term climatic influence responsible for the spatial distribution of TC, TN and TS. Different processes become visible at the continental scale when examining TC, TN and TS concentrations in agricultural soil Europe-wide. This facilitates large-scale land-use management and allows specific areas (subregional to local) to be identified that may require more detailed research.

The GEMAS (geochemical mapping of agricultural soil) project collected 2108 Ap horizon soil samples from regularly ploughed fields in 33 European countries, covering 5.6 million km(2). The

O mapeamento geoquimico e a determinacao de concentracoes de linha de base de elementos potencialmente perigosos no ambiente recebem atencao crescente. A necessidade de conhecer dados geoquimicos regionais, bem como a alocacao espacial de areas com concentracoes de elementos anomalos e as chances de identificar suas principais fontes motivam o interesse. Aqui, resultados de um exercicio de mapeamento geoquimico e derivados de valores de referencia relacionados sao apresentados. Foram coletadas 541 amostras de sedimentos e aguas superficiais em todo o Quadrilatero Ferrifero (QI), Brasil, com uma densidade de 1 amostra por 13 km2. Os mapas geoquimicos foram compilados usando o metodo de interpolacao de distância inversa ponderada (lDW). As concentracoes de fundo “normais” foram distinguidas das anomalias com a tecnica de separacao por concentracao, onde anomalias positivas foram definidas pela regra “Boxplot” Upper Inner Fence (UIF). Os resultados demonstram que mais de 70% da area do QI apresenta faixas de concentracao de fundo geogenico para os elementos estudados. Cerca de 20% da area representam anomalias positivas, provavelmente relacionadas tanto a tipos de rochas proximas a superficie quanto a interferencia humana. Anomalias antropogenicas distintas, notadamente das atividades de mineracao, sao identificadas em 5% a 10% de todas as amostras. Esta primeira amostragem no QI permite delinear o papel da litologia na composicao elementar de sedimentos de riachos e estabelecer valores de referencia para as principais bacias hidrograficas - assim localizando localidades, cidades e bacias fluviais que estao expostas a riscos ambientais e precisam ser protegido. Os resultados demonstram que mais de 70% da area do QI apresenta faixas de concentracao de fundo geogenico para os elementos estudados. Cerca de 20% da area representam anomalias positivas, provavelmente relacionadas tanto a tipos de rochas proximas a superficie quanto a interferencia humana. Anomalias antropogenicas distintas, notadamente das atividades de mineracao, sao identificadas em 5% a 10% de todas as amostras. Esta primeira amostragem no QI permite delinear o papel da litologia na composicao elementar de sedimentos de riachos e estabelecer valores de referencia para as principais bacias hidrograficas - assim localizando localidades, cidades e bacias fluviais que estao expostas a riscos ambientais e precisam ser protegido. Os resultados demonstram que mais de 70% da area do QI apresenta faixas de concentracao de fundo geogenico para os elementos estudados. Cerca de 20% da area representam anomalias positivas, provavelmente relacionadas tanto a tipos de rochas proximas a superficie quanto a interferencia humana. Anomalias antropogenicas distintas, notadamente das atividades de mineracao, sao identificadas em 5% a 10% de todas as amostras. Esta primeira amostragem no QI permite delinear o papel da litologia na composicao elementar de sedimentos de riachos e estabelecer valores de referencia para as principais bacias hidrograficas - assim localizando localidades, cidades e bacias fluviais que estao expostas a riscos ambientais e precisam ser protegido. provavelmente relacionada tanto a tipos de rochas proximas a superficie quanto a interferencia humana. Anomalias antropogenicas distintas, notadamente das atividades de mineracao, sao identificadas em 5% a 10% de todas as amostras. Esta primeira amostragem no QI permite delinear o papel da litologia na composicao elementar de sedimentos de riachos e estabelecer valores de referencia para as principais bacias hidrograficas - assim localizando localidades, cidades e bacias fluviais que estao expostas a riscos ambientais e precisam ser protegido. provavelmente relacionada tanto a tipos de rochas proximas a superficie quanto a interferencia humana. Anomalias antropogenicas distintas, notadamente das atividades de mineracao, sao identificadas em 5% a 10% de todas as amostras. Esta primeira amostragem no QI permite delinear o papel da litologia na composicao elementar de sedimentos de riachos e estabelecer valores de referencia para as principais bacias hidrograficas - assim localizando localidades, cidades e bacias fluviais que estao expostas a riscos ambientais e precisam ser protegido.

This paper contributes to an enhanced understanding of present climatic conditions, observed climate trends and regional climate vulnerability of the Bhutan Himalayas. Bhutan’s complex, often high-altitude terrain and the severe impact of the Indian summer monsoon leads to a strong exposure of the countries’ key economic sectors (agriculture, forestry, hydropower generation and tourism) to climatic changes. Climate change also threatens Bhutan’s vast biodiversity and increases the likelihood of natural hazards (e.g. glacier lake outburst floods, flash floods, droughts and forest fires). A better understanding of Bhutan’s climate and its variability, as well as observed and possible climate impacts, will help in improving the handling of regional social, economic and ecologic challenges not limited to the Himalayas. Only a few climatological studies exist for the eastern Himalayas. They mainly focus on adaptation to immediate threats by glacier lake outbursts. In contrast, this paper (1) investigates the average spatial and inner-annual diversity of the air temperature regime of Bhutan, based on local meteorological observations, (2) discusses past temperature variability, based on global datasets, and (3) relates effects of observed warming to water availability, hydropower development, natural hazards, forests, biodiversity, agriculture, human health and tourism in the Bhutan Himalayas. Results indicate a large spatial and temporal temperature variability within Bhutan and considerably increasing temperatures especially over recent decades. Implications of regional climatic changes on various socio-economic sectors and possible adaptation efforts are discussed.

Geochemical mapping and the determination of reference values receive increasing attention. The need to know regional geochemical background data as well as the spatial allocation of areas with anomalous geochemical concentrations and chances to identify their major sources motivate the interest. Here, results from a high-density geochemical mapping exercise and derived related reference values are presented; 541 stream sediment samples have been collected across the Iron Quadrangle (IQ), Brazil, with a density of one sample per 13 km2. Geochemical maps were compiled using the inverse distance weighted interpolation method. “Normal” concentrations were distinguished from anomalies with the separation-by-concentration-range technique, where positive anomalies are defined by the “boxplot” Upper Inner Fence (UIF) rule. More than 70 % of the IQ show exclusively geogenic concentration ranges for the elements studied. About 20 % represent positive anomalies, likely related to both near surface rock types and to human interference. Distinct anthropogenic anomalies, notably from mining activities explain 5–10 % of all samples. This first high-density sampling in the IQ allows delineating the role of lithology on the elemental composition of stream sediments, and to establish reference values for the main river basins—thus pinpointing localities, cities and fluvial basins that are exposed to environmental risks and need to be protected.

Precipitation extremes affect various economic sectors and may result in substantial costs for societies. Future projections of such extreme occurrences are needed to successfully develop robust regional adaptation strategies. Model ensemble-based approaches provide a higher level of confidence since they compensate to some degree for the uncertainties of individual climate model projections. An ensemble of twelve regional climate projections from five regional climate models was used to evaluate the suitability of a modified version of the Rainfall Anomaly Index (mRAI) as an alternative to the Standardised Precipitation Index (SPI) in assessing future precipitation conditions. We compared frequency distributions and trends of the mRAI with the SPI for a test region that is climatologically representative of Central Eastern Europe. Both indices are highly correlated with each other at all tested timescales—both for stations and for regionally averaged data—with Pearson correlation coefficients >>0.9 and Spearman correlation coefficients >0.99. There are no significant differences in their frequency distributions, although the mRAI shows slightly higher frequencies in the classes of ‘moderately dry’ to ‘very dry’ conditions. The change signals revealed by SPI and mRAI are very similar for mean changes as well as for changes in the extremes. Considering the large bandwidth of change signals of individual regional climate projections, the mRAI provides sufficiently robust results for the evaluation of future precipitation anomaly trends. The notably more complex calculation of the SPI has no appreciable advantage for this application.

Treatment of nutrient-rich wastewater potentially results in direct release of greenhouse gases (GHGs) such as CO2, N2O or CH4 – and thus affects Waste Water Treatment Plant's carbon footprint. Accurate CO2 quantification is challenging due to various chemical, physical and operational conditions. A floating chamber equipped with a nondispersive infrared, single beam, dual wavelength sensor has been evaluated for a pilot approach to quantify fugitive CO2 emissions above different wastewater treatment units. Total average CO2 flux was 1182 g CO2·m−2·d−1 with minimum and maximum fluxes of 829 g CO2·m−2·d−1 and 1493 g CO2·m−2·d−1, respectively. Total observed CO2 emissions were in 7 to 17 kg CO2·PE−1·a−1 (average 12 kg CO2·PE−1·a−1). The nitrification tank accounted for about 94.3% of the emissions, followed by secondary clarification (ca. 4.3%) and denitrification (ca. 1.4%), based on those average annual CO2 emissions per population equivalent (PE).

The Brazilian–German project EcoRespira-Amazon currently conducts a study of soil respiration and soil chemistry in the Brazilian Amazon basin that comparatively examines forested land with post-forest land cover. The Amazon region, long recognized as a key component of the global carbon cycle and a tipping point in the global climate system, covers an area of 7 million km2; this study provides representative regional data that will help to fill existing knowledge gaps and to verify (or falsify) current assumptions on the role of humid tropical forest regions in the climate system.

Epilithic lichen (Xanthoria elegans in Canada, Lecanora muralis in Germany) were gathered from 17 locations in Ontario, Canada (from Lake Ontario to James Bay) and 43 locations in Germany (from the Alps to the North Sea and from the Baltic Sea to the Erzgebirge). Sample aliquots were digested in nitric acid and trace elements were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrom-etry techniques. The organohalogens were determined as absorbable organic halogens (AOXs) by coulometry. Concentration ranges from Germany for trace element samples and AOXs were determined. The lichen showed high spatial resolution in their element enrichment patterns. This allowed for differentiation between natural and anthropogenic dominance in ambient air concentrations. This biomonitoring method has proven to be very sensitive, fast, and reliable. No clear relationship could be found between trace element and AOX concentrations. The AOX values may reflect individual metabolic rates of the fungal partner in liche...

Changes in frequency, duration and/or intensity of extreme precipitation events, such as heavy precipitation or drought, profoundly impact both society and the natural environment. Regional climate models are valuable tools to assess any future progress of such events, and to complement the development of regional and local adaptation and mitigation strategies – here for the model region Dresden within the REGKLAM project. Multi-model approaches may alleviate some of the problems related to uncertainties of projected changes. The bandwidth of future climate conditions in Central Eastern Germany has been estimated, using 12 regional climate projections in daily resolution as simulated within the EU-project ENSEMBLES (emission scenario A1B). Validation of the model runs against an observation data set displayed significant difficulties of the models to describe the regional precipitation characteristics. Shortcomings are particularly obvious in realistically simulating dry period characteristics, likely due to an overestimation of precipitation totals. Most models agree in the projection of more frequent and longer-lasting drought events during summer, while wet phase frequency and persistence is projected to increase in winter. Extreme precipitation events (99th percentile) are likely to increase by the end of the 21st century in most seasons – even in summer, despite projected decreasing average precipitation. The suggested display of all individual model results allows comparing the characteristics and the trend behaviour of the individual regional climate projections. This supports selecting the suitable model(s) for specific impact modelling demands.

Recent research suggests that airborne pollutants, deposited in the urban environment, can be efficiently studied by attic dust analysis. Here, an attic dust study was carried out to determine the long-term airborne contamination load in the industrial town of Ajka, Hungary, by attic dust analysis. The spatial distribution of trace element contamination in airborne attic dust samples was to be mapped in order to relate spatial distribution to potential sources. The sampling strategy followed a grid-based stratified random design and samples were collected in 27 houses in the 64 km 2 project area. Houses with attics intact for at least 30–40 years were chosen to represent long-term industrial pollution. The concentrations of six trace elements (As, Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn) were measured with ICP-OES, whereas Hg content was analyzed by CV-AAS. Measured concentrations above the environmental standards were encountered. The univariate distribution analysis shows that Pb, Hg, Zn and Cd distribution is dominated by anthropogenic sources, and characterized by high extreme values, such as elevated Hg-concentrations around the lignite-fired power plant. Arsenic and Cu-distributions seem equally influenced by background and anthropogenic processes. Nickel shows lower concentrations and variability, and its major source is the natural geochemical background. To study the geochemical element behavior, a correlation analysis was performed to estimate the metal sorption to Fe-oxy-hydroxide phases. Results show a good spatial correlation of contamination and sources such as lignite mines, lignite-fired power plant and traffic. Attic dust appears to be an efficient and cheap sampling medium to study and map long-term airborne contamination and possibly associated human health risks in an industrial setting.

Most people in Europe and North America certainly think of Angkor Wat, related tourist attractions, and possibly of the Khmer Rouge, when hearing about Cambodia. Yet this fascinating country and its cultures certainly merit more attention. The brand new, revised Atlas of Cambodia, released in 2014, is a wealth of information with exquisite maps and resourceful texts—and without a doubt deserves detailed perusal (Fig. 1). Edited and produced by the dedicated NGO, Save Cambodia’s Wildlife (SCW; http:// www.cambodiaswildlife.org/index.php/scw-projects/fin ished-projects/atlas-of-cambodia), the new release is a completely revised and updated version of its predecessor from 2006 that bore the subtitle National poverty and environment maps. Although this work may be less accessible to many Cambodians since it is written in English, the Atlas certainly closes an unfortunate information gap that is prevalent particularly in the western world, when it comes to countries such as Cambodia and Laos (a similar atlas was published in 2008: http://www. laoatlas.net/Welcome.html). The new edition for Cambodia not only provides a larger size format that improves the map display, but also presents these in a partly much higher resolution and print quality, which can only be described as fully professional and outright enticing. Eighteen chapters deliver much more than a general outline of information on the country and its conditions. Chapter 1 introduces the spatial political structure, relief, and the larger regional setting, including its dependence on the Mekong River (8 pp). Following this short overview of the Cambodian geography, the ensuing four chapters provide quite detailed environmental information, and precede chapters with correspondingly detailed socio-economic facts about the country and its people. It all starts with forests (Chap. 2: 12 pp). The first set of maps, showing a sequence of forest fragmentation indices from 1973 to 2009, delivers a sobering truth—the fast diminishing forest resources. It continues with biomerelated ecological zones and information on community and protected forests in the country. In between the maps, concise texts add further and most useful information, including references for further study and possible verification. The new structure of the Atlas enhances the already magnificent 2006 edition, simply because the photography Fig. 1 Book cover of the 2014 edition of the Atlas of Cambodia published by the NGO, Save Cambodia’s Wildlife

According to the US Energy Information Administration, Japan produced in 2013 only 3 % of its domestic gas consumption and 0.3 % of its domestic oil consumption. It has emerged as the world’s largest importer of liquefied natural gas, the second-largest importer of coal and the third largest of net oil. For this reason, the exigencies of energy supplies in Japan call for durable solutions that are sustainable and reliable. The present situation of under developed own energy potential contradicts the abundant and inexhaustible sources of renewable energy within Japan.

To identify current and future human health risks from urban air pollution, size-segregated particle samples were collected under various seasonal and meteorological conditions in Dresden, Germany. Sampling days were grouped into twelve categories depending on season, air mass origin and temperature. A comprehensive chemical characterisation and mass closure were performed. The particulate matter (PM) mass concentration and composition were shown to be highly dependent on these categories. The highest PM mass concentrations were found on cold winter days, mainly due to compounds of anthropogenic origin. The current annual mean PM mass concentration and composition were calculated using the occurrence frequencies of the categories (weighted mean). Information about future changes of the occurrence frequencies of the categories was deduced from climate models. Assuming that PM concentration and composition within a given category do not change, the annual mean PM mass concentration and composition were calculated for two scenarios (weighted mean, 2071–2100). As a result, it was found that the annual mean PM mass concentration is likely to decrease slightly by 2100, mainly due to a decrease of sulphate and soot mass concentrations. Generally, chemicals originating from anthropogenic emissions (PAHs, trace metals) are estimated to decrease. However, it is concluded that emission reduction measures are still necessary to control urban air quality including PM even if climate change will lead to a certain reduction in PM.

Atmospheric circulation strongly modulates precipitation patterns throughout Europe. A selection of synoptic types was chosen to investigate the impact of circulation on the spatial distribution of precipitation within Europe and neighbouring regions (for 1951–2010). Applied were (1) the original and one automated version of the Grosswetterlagen classification, (2) the Vangengeim–Girs classification and (3) a dataset of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO). Daily values of the E-OBS gridded precipitation dataset were allocated to synoptic types, visualising precipitation anomalies (in percent) during winter (October–March) and summer (April–September) half years. Anomalies from average precipitation conditions (only) contain days connected to each of the investigated synoptic types. Distinct anomaly patterns become visible and are explained by the location of pressure systems. Patterns are spatially similar between both half years for Grosswetterlagen and Vangengeim–Girs classifications, while the NAO shows pronounced seasonal changes. Precipitation anomaly maps were applied to help explain observed changes in European precipitation amounts from 1981 to 2010, as compared to 1951–1980. Changes of precipitation amounts were related to frequency changes of synoptic types, predominantly during the winter half year. Here, increasing (decreasing) frequencies of synoptic types connected to westerly (easterly) inflow supported higher precipitation amounts in northern Europe and lower amounts in southern Europe.

Air temperature variations in Europe and northern Asia are strongly affected by atmospheric circulation. A large-scale study of temperature signals is presented, using a newly available global gridded daily temperature dataset. Major types of European Grosswetterlagen (large-scale weather patterns) and the Russian Vangengeim–Girs classification are compared in their spatial applicability to air temperatures within the past 110 years (1901–2010). The consistency of spatial patterns in the three most recent decades (1981–2010) is investigated, and temperature changes are interpreted against the backdrop of changes in character and frequency of circulation patterns. Both classifications largely explain the observed temperature variability. Spatial patterns are large-scale and strong in both regions, especially in winter. Both spatial extent and signal magnitude show a distinct seasonality with maximum values in winter and minimum ones in summer. Spatial patterns show little changes in Europe; yet the ability to explain temperature variability in northern Asia decreased within 1981–2010. European winter warming corresponds to increased maritime and to decreased continental air mass inflow, superimposed on the general warming trend. Northern Asian winter warming is partly explainable by circulation changes in January and February, but to a lesser extend in December. These results may be used to advance input variables of global climate models and to improve their performance in the European–Northern Asian area.

Todos os Santos (All Saints) Bay area, NE-Brazil, is known for one of the most important cases of urban lead (Pb) contamination in the world. The main objective of this work was to assess and interpret the spatial distribution of As, Cd, Hg, Pb, and Zn in “background” soils of this environmentally impacted bay area, using a combination of geostatistical and multivariate analytical methods to distinguish between natural and anthropogenic sources of those metal(oid)s in soils. We collected 114 topsoil samples (0.0–0.2 m depth) from 38 sites. The median values for trace metal concentrations in soils (mg kg−1) followed the order Pb (33.9) > Zn (8.8) > As (1.2) > Cd (0.2) > Hg (0.07), clearly reflecting a Pb-contamination issue. Principal component analysis linked Cd, Pb, and Zn to the same factor (F1), chiefly corroborating their anthropogenic origin; yet, both Pb and Zn are also influenced by natural lithogenic sources. Arsenic and Hg concentrations (F2) are likely related to the natural component alone; their parent material (igneous–metamorphic rocks) seemingly confirm this hypothesis. The heterogeneity of sources and the complexity of the spatial distribution of metals in large areas such as the Todos os Santos Bay warrant, the importance of multivariate and geostatistical analyses in the interpretation of environmental data.

A 51-year dataset (1961–2011) from nine meteorological stations in the capitals of northeastern Brazil (NEB), with daily data of precipitation totals and of mean, minimum, and maximum temperatures, was statistically analyzed for data homogeneity and for signals of climate variability. The hypothesis was explored that a connection exists between inhomogeneities of the time series and the meteorological systems influencing the region. Results of the homogeneity analysis depend on the selected test variable, the test algorithm, and the chosen significance level; all more or less subjective choices. Most of the temperature series was classified as “suspect,” while most of the precipitation series was categorized as “useful.” Displaying and visually checking the time series demonstrates the power of expertise and may allow for a deeper data analysis. Consistent changes in the seasonality of temperature and precipitation emerge over NEB despite manifold breaks in the temperature series. Both series appear to be coupled. The intra-annual temperature and precipitation ranges have increased, along with an intensified seasonal cycle. Temperature mainly increased during DJF, MAM, and SON, with decreases in JJA being related to wetter conditions and more frequent heavy precipitation events. Drought conditions mostly increased in SON and DJF, depending on the timing of the local dry season.

Die offentliche Diskussion zu Energie- und Rohstoffthemen in Deutschland (Mehrheitsmeinung) ist teilweise von Wunschdenken und einer eher ruckwartsgewandten Analyse dominiert. Das stimmt insofern bedenklich, als unser Land weltweit sowohl fur technologische Spitzenleistungen als auch fur ausgewogene und eher proaktive Bemuhungen auf dem Weg zu einer Kreislaufwirtschaft und zu konsequentem Umweltschutz bekannt ist (Kap. 7) und dafur weitgehend anerkannt wird. Zu diesen Bemuhungen gehort auch die miteinander verknupfte Energie- und Rohstoffwende. Im Umkehrschluss lasst sich konstatieren, dass unser wirtschaftliches Wohlergehen – auch unabhangig von jeder Wirtschaftstheorie – davon abhangt, dass wir weiterhin technologisch vorwartsgewandt orientiert sind und Masstabe setzen.

Climate variability in Europe and northern Asia is markedly affected by changes in atmospheric circulation. Two manual catalogues of large-scale circulation patterns, the ‘Grosswetterlagen’ (GWLc) and ‘Vangengeim-Girs’ classifications (VGc), were analysed and compared to detect frequency changes of circulation forms. Results were compared with variations of ‘objective’ references: variations of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and a hybrid version of the GWLc (SynopVis Grosswetterlagen catalogue, SVGc). Changes were investigated for 1901–2010, focussing on the most recent climate normal (1981–2010). Trends are moderate in the winter half year (WHY), but rather consistent between the approaches. Circulation variability within VGc/NAO and GWLc/SVGc largely agrees. In the summer half year, large trends are visible in VGc and GWLc, but their objective support by the SVGc, showing comparably small changes, is low. Changes in the distribution of circulation patterns likely fostered a larger temperature increase in the investigated regions compared to global average temperatures during the past 30 years in the WHY. The results of this study help further in investigating temperature and precipitation changes in both Europe and northern Asia.