Permafrost

Permafrost shapes the alpine mountain landscape and plays an important role e.g. for the planning and construction of high mountain infrastructures, for natural hazard management or landscape development. If the permanently frozen ground warms up or thaws, the frequency and occurrence of natural hazards such as rockfalls or debris flows may change. With its research as well as long-term in-situ observation in permafrost areas, the center develops important baseline data on the thermal state of permafrost soils and their dynamics. The aim is to document changes, better understand processes and identify future developments at an early stage in order to ultimately prevent risks and hazards.

More information: Research group Permafrost