Hello, I am Anna from Germany.

Together with my project partner, I participated in the 59th Jugend forscht competition in the field of chemistry in 2024.

In terms of the motto \”Use Your Brain!\”, we investigated the effects of copper and various concentrations in different soils after the flood in the Ahrvalley. In plant experiments, the negative effects of increased copper pollution on plants were demonstrated, and with the help of photometric analysis, a significant decrease in copper concentrations in the Ahr (river) was proven.

For the future, it is important to better assess disasters in general and in relation to water, in order to prevent such catastrophes, I would like to contribute to this effort.

In Germany, droughts and heavy rainfalls accompanied by flooding have become more common over the last few decades. Therefore, water management and civil protection are becoming increasingly important. Additionally, the misuse of agricultural fertilizers and pesticides, as well as heavy flooding, can release pollutants and toxins into rivers and groundwater.

Renaturalization of rivers and the use of crops that are not dependent on the heavy use of pesticides can at least reduce the impact of flooding and pollution. The use of service water in some facilities can reduce freshwater demand and minimize wastewater discharge, thus conserving water resources during droughts.