About
Dr. Astrid Wallner is a Senior Research Scientist at the Centre for Development and Environment (CDE) at the University of Bern, Switzerland. She specializes in stakeholder perceptions, quality of life, and sustainable regional development, with additional expertise in protected areas, natural resource governance, and negotiation processes. Her work focuses on bridging scientific research with practical management in environmental contexts.
- University: University of Bern
- Department: Centre for Development and Environment
- Academic Rank: Research Fellow
Research Focus:
Dr. Wallner's research explores the intersection of social and environmental systems, particularly in mountainous and protected regions. Key themes include:
- Stakeholder engagement in park management
- Assessment of impacts from environmental policies
- Strategies for sustainable tourism and conservation
- Community participation in UNESCO Biosphere Reserves
- Reclamation of contaminated sites (e.g., former munition depots)
Publications Overview:
Her recent work (2016-2024) examines:
- Evaluation of Regional Nature Parks in Switzerland
- Role of dry-stone walls as cultural heritage and biodiversity hotspots
- Economic impacts of parks on local farming communities
- Development of scientific councils in protected areas
- Public acceptance of biosphere reserves across Switzerland, Germany, and Austria
Labs & Teams:
Dr. Wallner is affiliated with the Centre for Development and Environment (CDE), an interdisciplinary research center at the University of Bern focused on sustainable development and environmental science. Her fieldwork spans Switzerland, Canada, and Ukraine.
