Expertise

B-WARE Research Centre was founded in 2002 as a spin-off company from (the department of aquatic ecology and environmental biology at) Radboud University Nijmegen. B-WARE specializes in conducting applied and scientific research into biogeochemical and ecological processes that determine the quality of natural areas and waters. Our research contributes to knowledge on ecosystem functioning, which can be directly applied to nature restoration, nature management and the development of new nature.

Nitrogen

Since the 1980s, research has been conducted in the Netherlands on the effects of excess nitrogen on various natural ecosystems. Because excess nitrogen influences different levels of organization in ecosystems, the effects on species and ecosystem functioning are complex. B-WARE is working to further understand and quantify the effects of nitrogen deposition nature. Apart from measuring the effects of nitrogen in natural systems and publishing these results ourselves, we also , participate in various advisory committees and collaborate in (inter)national nitrogen studies.

Water quality

Although water quality in the Netherlands has improved in some respects in recent decades, many waters still face problems. These may include the absence of certain characteristic plant and animal species but also problems with (blue) algae, mass developments of aquatic plants, siltation and odor nuisance. The European Water Framework Directive (WFD) has set requirements that our natural waters must meet. Many water quality problems are caused by excessive availability of nutrients, also known as eutrophication.

Restoration management

As a result of acidification, eutrophication and desiccation, the quality of nature in the Netherlands has deteriorated significantly. For successful and sustainable restoration management, knowledge of the controlling factors and processes is a requirement. Within the OBN nature knowledge network (formerly Effect Targeted Measures), much knowledge has been developed about these controlling processes for recovery management.

Nature development

The conversion of former agricultural land to nature often takes place as part of the establishment of the Netherlands Nature Network (NNN, formerly the National Ecological Network).

Peat oxidation and greenhouse gas emissions

Peatlands are naturally wet areas. Under these wet conditions, the decomposition of organic material is inhibited, causing it to accumulate and form peat. In the Netherlands, water levels are often kept low to drain this wet land and make it suitable for agriculture. This puts the peat in contact with the air, causing the peat to break down (peat oxidation). This in turn leads to increased CO2 emissions and land subsidence. To combat peat oxidation, water levels are raised in many places and attempts are being made to retain water in the peatlands. This will reduce CO2 emissions.