Environmental und Sustainability prize from B.A.U.M. for Prof. Jörn Birkmann

How do complex crises and disasters arise? How can sustainable reconstruction and rebuilding after disasters like the flash flood of 2021 be achieved together with those affected? What do politicians and administrations need to do to make cities and regions climate-resilient? Prof. Jörn Birkmann, Head of the Institute of Spatial and Regional Planning (IREUS) at the University of Stuttgart, is investigating these questions in his research. When developing new concepts, he focuses primarily on vulnerable population groups and sensitive and critical infrastructures. Birkmann's recommendations for adapting to extreme events and strengthening the resilience of cities and infrastructure are reflected in political decisions and legislation in this country, in international guidelines and in the international media.

"In recognition of his extraordinary dedication he has been awarded the B.A.U.M. | Environmental and Sustainability Award in the Science category," stated Martin Oldeland, Chairman of the jury and Deputy Chairman of the Association's Executive Board. The B.A.U.M. Executive Board presented Birkmann with the award at the event “Go!vernance”: Drivers for a successful transformation”, which took place in Hamburg to mark the association's 40th anniversary.

In this video, you can find out what characterizes the Stuttgart scientist's research, what benefits it has for society, how it is received and what motivates him.

Jörn Birkmann has served as the Director of the Institute for Spatial and Regional Planning (IREUS) at the University of Stuttgart since 2014. Among other things, he coordinates the KAHR project (Climate Adaptation, Floods and Resilience for the Scientific Monitoring of the Reconstruction of Regions in Rhineland-Palatinate and North Rhine-Westphalia Affected by the 2021 Flood Disaster), which is funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), as well as a spatial analysis project for Baden-Württemberg's new state development plan. In 2019, Birkmann and three international partners were awarded the prestigious Synergy Grant from the European Research Council ERC. He was also appointed to the Advisory Council for Spatial Development of the Federal Ministry of Housing, Urban Development and Building (BMWSB) and was lead author of the Assessment Reports 5 and 6 of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

With the B.A.U.M. | Environmental and Sustainability Award, the network for sustainable business deliberately honors committed individuals rather than organizations. The award was established in 1993 to recognize role models and the work of “doers” in companies and institutions, the work of those responsible for environmental and sustainability management and its operational implementation. The prizes were awarded on November 19, 2024 as part of the B.A.U.M. anniversary conference in Hamburg.

As a dedicated network, B.A.U.M. e.V. strives to promote its core mission: Creating a livable future through sustainable management. Established in 1984, the association now boasts over 800 members and serves as a prominent advocate for sustainable businesses at both national and European levels, driving the advancement of a socio-ecological market economy. B.A.U.M. supports companies committed to transformation by helping them develop and enhance sustainability strategies. It also connects stakeholders from business, politics, science, media, and associations, fostering collaboration and innovation.

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