Swiss Federal Research Institute WSL

Research 08.12.2025

How many insects fly in the sky?

Using radar data, researchers estimate that around 100 trillion insects fly in the air above the USA every day.

Research 26.11.2025

Avalanches sustain glaciers worldwide

An international research team shows that avalanches contribute significantly to the health of many glaciers.

A panoramic view of majestic snow-covered mountains under a clear blue sky. The landscape features glaciers and rugged terrain, showcasing the beauty of a winter alpine environment. Snow blankets the ground, creating a serene and untouched atmosphere.

Research 19.11.2025

Where pepper grows

Pepper was overtaken by climate change during its post-glacial spread, a new study by the WSL shows.

A dense cluster of green leaves can be seen, growing in different sizes and shapes. Some leaves are shiny and show water spots, while others appear dull. The plants convey a feeling of freshness and lush growth.

Research 13.11.2025

Beavers create habitats for bats

A study shows that land animals benefit from beaver dam construction – for example, endangered bats.

A beaver stands near a riverbank, amidst green foliage and fallen branches. It is engaged in chewing on some plant material, showcasing its characteristic fur and sturdy build. The setting is natural, with water visible in the foreground and dense vegetation in the background.

Research for people and the environment in a changing world ¶

News

Institutional

04.12.2025

Katrin Meusburgn sits on the ground in a forest, next to a freshly planted tree. The surroundings indicate reforestation activity.

Katrin Meusburger researches how soils store and transfer water. The ETH Board has now appointed her as titular professor.

Institutional

27.11.2025

A woman with long dark hair smiles warmly at the camera. She is wearing a dark shirt and has a friendly demeanor, set against a plain, light-colored background.

Earth scientist Franziska Lechleitner is researching underground carbon cycles with an SNF Starting Grant worth 1.8 mio CHF.

Institutional

24.11.2025

Man standing in front of a blackboard with physics formulas

The students of ETH Zurich have voted: SLF researcher Johan Gaume receives the Golden Owl 2025 for excellent teaching.

Research

18.11.2025

Two hikers stand on rocky terrain, looking towards a large, glacial formation that contrasts with the surrounding arid landscape. The sharp spikes of snow and ice are typical of dry mountain regions. Meltwater streams pour from the glacier. The backdrop features rugged mountains.

Study shows: Andean glaciers will not be able to buffer a megadrought similar to the current one.

Research

14.11.2025

DNA from air, soil and water is analysed in WSL's clean laboratory. See how this method is used to identify fungi species.

Services and products

07.11.2025

The Best of Swiss Apps jury has named White Risk, the SLF app for avalanche prevention, Master of Swiss Apps.

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Events

26 February 2026

Dieser Workshop bietet eine Plattform, um sich über die Herausforderungen und Herangehensweisen bei Planung, Gestaltung und Umsetzung von…

12 March 2026

Dieser Workshop bietet eine Plattform, um sich über die Herausforderungen und Herangehensweisen bei Planung, Gestaltung und Umsetzung von…

17 March 2026

Der Waldboden speichert im Schnitt mehr Kohlenstoff als die oberirdische Biomasse – und er tut weit mehr: Er ist Lebensraum für unzählige…

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Research for people and the environment in a changing world ¶

News

WSL soil researcher becomes ETH professor

1.8 mio CHF for research into the carbon cycle

“Everything should be made as simple as possible.”

The Future Fate of Glaciers in the Andes

Analysing DNA from the environment

White Risk is Switzerland's best app

Events

Multifunktionale Lösungen für Städte der Zukunft

Multifunktionale Lösungen für Städte der Zukunft - Tag2

Waldböden im Klimawandel - Runder Waldtisch