Go behind the scenes of a degree project
Curious about what it’s like to write a degree project at SLU? Follow Klara, a student at SLU, and join her journey through the thesis process – from the initial idea to the completed project.
Spider silk with integrated color – new method developed at SLU
Scientists have developed a new type of artificial spider silk fibers that are colored, marking an important step toward eliminating the need for conventional dyeing processes.
The right flower supports life above and below ground
Not all flowers help equally. An SLU study shows the right species in flower strips can support pollinators, pest enemies, and soil life — while poor choices may do the opposite.
We make the world a better place
SLU is a world-class university, consistently ranked among the global leaders in life and environmental sciences. Here, people come together to make a real difference. Through knowledge and action, we create the conditions for a sustainable, vibrant and better world.
News and events
-
Strong sunlight limits plant diversity and biomass in grasslands
The sun is the basis for photosynthesis, but not all plants thrive in strong sunlight. Strong sunlight even constrains plant diversity and plant biomass in the world's grasslands, a new study shows. Temperature, precipitation, and atmospheric nitrogen deposition have less impact on plant diversity. -
Smart farming scares pests away – and lures them aside
Smallholder farmers in Africa struggle with weeds, insect pests and low soil fertility. The push-pull system, where crops are grown alongside other plants that scare away or attract pests, is one way of dealing with these problems. The method works – but not everywhere and not in the same way. -
Trees do not just count cold – they use warm spells to track winter’s progress
To survive winter, trees must time spring growth with great precision. New research from Umeå Plant Science Centre shows that trees also use warm interruptions in early winter as signals, helping buds avoid opening too early. -
Traditions determine which tree species are used in Madagascar – challenged as the rainforest shrinks
The forest is vital for the local population in Madagascar. A new study shows how culture and traditions govern which tree species are preferred in everyday life. The study provides knowledge that is needed to support the population and reduce pressure on the forest.
Research
Most recently published projects
-
Soil retention of phosphorus from on-site wastewater treatment systems
In Sweden there are nearly one million soil-based on-site wastewater treatment systems (OWTSs). OWTSs may contribute to eutrophication of surface waters, due to the discharge of phosphorus (P).
-
Assumptions and values influence research on agricultural sustainability
What assumptions, values and knowledge claims shape different scientific approaches to agricultural sustainability? Five researchers have delved into this question within SLU's Interdisciplinary Academy. -
How calves drink milk when mum is around
In modern dairy farming, the calf is commonly separated from the cow within a few hours of birth and is then fed milk or milk replacer with little opportunity for natural suckling. A new study from SLU examined two different systems where cow and calf have contact after birth. -
Earthworm’s burrowing and capacity to deliver ecosystem services threatened by soil compaction
Earthworms are important “ecosystem engineers” that contribute to a range of ecosystem services. But earthworms are sensitive to disturbances in their environment. A thesis has increased the knowledge on how soil compaction impacts earthworm burrowing activity.
Explore statistics, open environmental data and species information
Search for and official statistics, open data and maps from SLU's environmental monitoring and assessment.
Work at SLU
Would you like to contribute to the development of sustainable living, based on science and education? Join us!