Sarah Gottwald

Dr. Sarah Gottwald is a researcher at the Social-Ecological Systems Institute (SESI) at Leuphana Universität Lüneburg. Her work focuses on integrating sense of place theory with sustainability planning, geodesign, and nature-based solutions in river landscapes. She specializes in participatory methods for environmental governance and spatial planning, emphasizing stakeholder collaboration and transdisciplinary approaches. Her research addresses mobility nexus challenges, socio-ecological system governance, and the co-creation of sustainable futures.

Key research areas include river basin management, GIS-based participatory mapping, and the application of geodesign for sustainable development. She explores how place attachment influences environmental stewardship and how diverse knowledge systems can be integrated in policy contexts. Her projects often involve international collaborations, such as studies in Costa Rica and Germany.

Teaching and project activities reflect her commitment to applied sustainability science. While no specific grants or student advisories are listed, her involvement in SESI’s initiatives underscores her role in fostering interdisciplinary research and practical solutions for socio-ecological challenges.

She is part of SESI’s team, contributing to the institute’s mission of advancing social-ecological systems research through innovative methodologies and community engagement.