The Virtual Alpine Observatory (VAO) presents its 5th symposium with the aim of sharing know-how and experiences between its partners and the respectively connected community of scientists and engineers. From 4 to 6 February 2020, this international symposium on research activities and outcomes of European high-altitude research stations will be hosted in Bern (CH). The symposium not only offers scientific and technical young talent a platform where they can present themselves, but is at the same time the ideal opportunity for:
- obtaining up-to-date information about the latest developments
- exchanging ideas
- identifying future trends and
- networking with the international high-altitude research community!
The VAO operates also in the scope of the Alpine Convention in which the Contracting Parties have agreed (Art.3) to promote and harmonise research work and systematic observations in close cooperation that will serve a better understanding of the interaction between region, economy and environment in the Alps and help to forecast future developments. The scientific topics that will be addressed during the symposium are:
- atmospheric and climate variability
- climate impact on Alpine environment, hazards and risks
- alpine water cycle
- environment and human health
- improving the infrastructure
Authors who’s work fit into one of these focus themes and who wish to give a presentation can still submit a publishable abstract before 05.01.2020 to info@vao.bayern.de. Further information and registration can be found here; the full programme is available here.
Since January 2019, the Permanent Secretariat has been an official observer of this cross-border and interdisciplinary cooperation, which has made it possible to address in great depth scientific problems relating to - among others - the possible impact of environmental influences on health. With the presence of Vice Secretary General Mrs Elmi at the symposium, the Permanent Secretariat of the Alpine Convention underlines the valuable contribution of the VAO to a further sustainable development of the Alps based on scientific data.