- The interdisciplinary research project AM WATT at the University of Europe for Applied Sciences (UE) explores the ecological, social, and cultural significance of the Wadden Sea
- Psychological and data-driven studies from the island of Borkum provide strategies for eco-friendly tourism
- Visual works capture the fragility and beauty of the UNESCO World Natural Heritage site
Hamburg, January 20, 2025 – In celebration of the 15th anniversary of the Wadden Sea being designated a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, the University of Europe for Applied Sciences (UE) has launched the interdisciplinary research project AM WATT. The project investigates the ecological, cultural, and social significance of the Wadden Sea on the island of Borkum.
Exploring the Wadden Sea from Multiple Perspectives
Under the leadership of renowned scientists and artists — including Prof. Dr. Silke Heuse (Environmental Psychology), Prof. Dr. Iris Lorscheid (Data Analysis), and Prof. Dr. Nina Röder (Photography) — the project was conducted in an interdisciplinary manner. Students from UE’s Art & Design, Psychology, and Data Science departments collaborated to explore the ecological, social, and cultural importance of the Wadden Sea.
AM WATT was launched in the summer of 2024 on the North Sea island of Borkum. The island, whose unique Wadden Sea is regarded as a key region for biodiversity and climate protection, served as the starting point for both scientific and artistic investigations. The project aims to analyze sustainable tourism practices, develop innovative approaches, and raise awareness of the need to protect fragile ecosystems.
“Our research demonstrates that psychological factors such as environmental awareness and social attitudes play a critical role in determining whether people make sustainable choices while on vacation. With the findings from AM WATT, we aim to not only foster a deeper understanding of sustainable behavior but also provide actionable insights for destinations like Borkum to promote eco-friendly practices,” commented Prof. Dr. Silke Heuse, Program Director for Business Psychology (B.Sc.), Campus Berlin | Program Coordinator & Director for Psychology (B.Sc.), Campus Hamburg | Vice Dean of the Business Department, Campus Hamburg.
Combining Empirical Research and Artistic Reflection
- Sustainability Studies: Prof. Dr. Iris Lorscheid and Prof. Dr. Silke Heuse conducted analyses of tourists’ sustainable behaviors. The results show that eco-friendly practices and decisions can be positively influenced by psychological factors such as environmental awareness and social norms.
- Borkum Analytics Project: Data analysis and artificial intelligence were used to investigate visitor segments and their preferences for sustainable tourism solutions.
- Artistic Reflections: Photography, illustrations, and films by students express the fragile beauty and the need to protect the Wadden Sea.
The research findings and artworks are compiled in the publication AM WATT, which offers innovative recommendations for sustainable tourism.
Exhibition Opening and Book Launch in Hamburg
The project results will be presented at an exhibition on January 24, 2025. Visitors are invited to explore the Wadden Sea from new perspectives and engage with the challenges and opportunities of sustainable tourism. The event will also mark the launch of the AM WATT publication, edited by Prof. Dr. Nina Röder and Evelyn Solinski.
- Location: Photo Studio (1st Floor), UE Campus Hamburg, Museumstraße 39, 22765 Hamburg
- Time: 8:00 p.m.
- Opening Speakers: Prof. Dr. Iris Lorscheid and Prof. Dr. Silke Heuse
“The works created as part of AM WATT, such as Janek Fronzeck and Philipp Hein’s infrared photography or Kimberley Schlimm’s poetic exploration of nature’s fragility, demonstrate the power of artistic reflection. They not only make the vitality and vulnerability of the Wadden Sea visible but also open up new perspectives to emotionally understand the significance of this unique ecosystem and communicate environmental protection visually,” commented Prof. Dr. Nina Röder, Program Director for BA Photography & New Media, Campus Hamburg.
For more information and access to the AM WATT book, please visit: https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1Wuv_aaR1UTLZmKpHuIHeZnJ5jMXDCQsk
Pressekontakte:
Jessica Barthel, University of Europe for Applied Sciences
E-Mail: jessica.barthel@gusgermany.de