Glossary

See P – producer-consumer-decomposer cycle

Mediterranean climate refers to the macro climate in the subtropical areas. Characteristic of this are mild winters with many hours of sunshine and hot, rainy summers. The areas characterised by a Mediterranean climate are located near the 40th degree latitude.

In steep terrain in mountains, landslides can occur in the case of poorly consolidated materials such as soil material, boulders and rubble due to the influence of precipitation events. The material “flows” down the valley at high speed. This process is called a mudslide.

Humic acids are mainly found in nutrient-rich, slightly acidic to neutral soils. They belong to the humic substances. Humic substances are formed from fragments and residues that are difficult to convert, such as spruce needles. They form organic-mineral complexes that contribute to structural stability and are very rich in nutrients. However, the nutrients are only

The sun’s rays hit the earth in the form of ultraviolet radiation. A part is reflected. On their way into the atmosphere, gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2), ozone and water vapour are reflected back to earth in the form of infrared radiation. This effect warms up the earth like a greenhouse and ensures a

The adjective anthropogenic denotes changes in the environment caused by humans.

Methane (CH₄) is a flammable, colourless and odourless gas. The main component of natural gas is methane. It has a high greenhouse potential and thus makes a significant contribution to global warming.

A development plan defines the way land can be developed and the use of the areas to be kept free from development. It also contains regulations on the permissible construction methods, construction heights and construction lines as well as the course and width of traffic areas. Development plans are based on a zoning plan and

Acids are substances that cause a pH value of less than 7 in an aqueous solution. The pH of bases is between 7 and 14. Acids and bases usually react with one another in what is known as an acid-base reaction and can neutralise one another.

Biomass-based fuels (e.g., from grain, corn, sugar cane), which can be used for engines and are sometimes mixed with fossil fuels in Austria.

Plants that have leaves all year round and don’t shed their foliage in winter are called evergreens. Among the most common evergreens are many conifers.

Due to the filter function of the soil, even very small dirt or pollutant particles can be bound in seeping water. This prevents contamination of the groundwater.

This approach, invented by the German chemist Michael Braungart and the American architect William McDonough, puts product cycles in a holistic context. The goal is not to dispose of the substances and materials used in products as waste, but to reuse them. That means continuing to use it after using it for another purpose.