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Journal: No Limits

To survive. Climate migration through the eyes of the Global South

Ewa Macura-Nnamdi , Magdalena Malinowska , Weronika Cygan-Adamczyk

Language: EN | Published: 25-04-2025 | Abstract | pp. 22-25

In the face of intensifying climate change, the phenomenon of migration – or rather displacement – is taking on a new meaning, especially from the perspective of the Global South. Researchers analyse literature and art from African and Caribbean countries to bring to light the less-heard but extremely important voices of the communities most affected by the climate crisis. They draw attention to the difference between the Western narrative on migration and local adaptation strategies, which often express hope, determination and a desire to create a new future – also through African futurism. In their view, climate-induced displacement is not only a geographical migration but also a cultural and symbolic change that redefines humanity's relationship with the planet and other forms of life. It is a voice that, if heard, could be the key to a more just and sustainable future.

2025-04-25



Journal: No Limits

Climate recorded in shrubs

Magdalena Opała-Owczarek , Maria Sztuka

Language: EN | Published: 21-11-2025 | Abstract | pp. 4-7

Arctic shrubs record the history of the region – from volcanic cooling to traces of ancient Viking settlements. Prof. Magdalena Opała-Owczarek’s team from the University of Silesia uses microscopic rings of long-lived junipers and polar willows to reconstruct the climatic conditions of several centuries ago. Using not only contemporary samples but also forgotten botanical collections from museums in Copenhagen, London, and Washington, researchers are reconstructing the history of Arctic weather dating back to the 16th century. Their growth rings reveal the effects of eruptions of volcanoes such as Laki and Tambora, which were capable of lowering temperatures by several degrees. Arctic dendrochronology, previously marginalised, is now becoming the key to understanding past and future climate change.

2025-11-21



Journal: No Limits

Recovering Rainwater

Maria Sztuka , Sławomir Sitek

Language: PL | Published: 21-09-2020 | Abstract | pp. 20-21

The ongoing climate changes in Central Europe have had a considerable and negative impact on the level of groundwater resources. The main objective of the DEEPWATER-CE project is to develop capacities for an integrated management of responsible public institutions in Central Europe with regard to a comprehensive and international approach to water resource planning and management and the adoption of MAR (Managed Aquifer Recharge) systems as a solution to water scarcity caused by climate change.

2020-09-21



Journal: No Limits

Utilising nature’s potential

Agnieszka Kompała-Bąba , Agnieszka Sikora

Language: EN | Published: 30-12-2024 | Abstract | pp. 4-7

Contemporary cities are mostly seen through the lens of organised greenery, while the potential of unorganised greenery growing on wasteland and post-industrial sites remains underappreciated despite being equally valuable. In such places, nature itself shapes plant communities that are best adapted to difficult environmental conditions, contributing to soil remediation, water retention, and biodiversity. Examples from Silesia, such as the Silesian Park, Żabie Doły, and Uroczysko Zielona show that nature can be an effective partner in the process of revitalising urban spaces. The concept of a ‘novel ecosystem’ created by plant succession in degraded areas points the way towards sustainable urban development in the face of climate change. Therefore, we should learn to trust nature and consider it an ally in urban planning.

2024-12-30



Journal: No Limits

Fungi in the Revitalization of Post-industrial Areas

Maria Sztuka , Franco Magurno

Language: EN | Published: 08-11-2021 | Abstract | pp. 22-23

Climate change has become a fact, and its effects are felt by people around the globe. Particularly dangerous are prolonged droughts, since they not only have a negative effect on the development of plants, but also become the cause of many dangerous diseases. The intensive use of fertilizers and pesticides or melioration as a support for agricultural production turned out to be highly harmful to the soil, and in many places led to its degradation. Much of the world is struggling with a lack of proper hydration, and desertification is beginning to threaten all continents. The research results of interdisciplinary scientific teams focused on counteracting environmental devastation and restoring vital biodiversity are not only diligently followed, but also applied as quickly as possible.

2021-11-08



Journal: No Limits

Problems with Water in Cities

Agnieszka Sikora , Damian Absalon

Language: PL | Published: 21-09-2020 | Abstract | pp. 14-15

It takes only a few minutes of a sudden downpour to paralyze not only the traffic in the city, but also to flood houses, cellars, or public buildings. The cost of removing the losses is enormous. One of the tasks of the Silesian Water Centre, a unit at the University of Silesia, is to search for solutions of these problems and to indicate ways to mitigate and eliminate the effects of such phenomena. The complex problems associated with climate change can be mitigated by introducing a so-called blue-green infrastructure and appropriate urban and architectural solutions.

2020-09-21