The research programme focuses on the observation and analysis of past, present and future changes to the poles, the oceans and the Earth System as a whole in a multidisciplinary approach. The research addresses the current changes in the Arctic, the Antarctic and their respective coastal regions. In addition, coastal regions in lower latitudes are being studied with emphasis on the effects of direct human impact. In the polar regions, the processes governing global climate change as well as the ecosystems’ response to change are being studied. This is complemented by detailed studies of the palaeoenvironmental archives and by process studies, allowing far-reaching conclusions to be drawn from the Earth’s past.

The programme also aims to develop a model system with which it can forecast medium-term developments. In this model, the influence on climate dynamics by the cryosphere, the oceans, the marine biosphere and the geo-chemosphere can be analysed. It also considers biodiversity and the flow of energy and matter in differing regional and time scales. Studies on the changes of the Earth’s climate and the human impact on this complex system aim to enable medium-term predictions on a scientific basis to aid political and social decision processes. To achieve these goals, modern research infrastructures such as vessels, aircraft and polar stations are used. The new Neumayer Station III is not only fulfilling its function as a research basis for longterm observations, but also strengthens Germany’s role in the Antarctic Treaty system, the international treaty guaranteeing free access for research to the Antarctic region.