Solco W. Tromp Foundation

To serve society by supporting science on the impact of the atmosphere on living beings, with the goal of a better and healthier life.  

The Solco W. Tromp Foudation: Supporting Biometeorology

In 1968 the “Stichting Biometeorologisch Onderzoek” (a.k.a. the Solco W. Tromp Foundation) was founded in the Netherlands by Dr Solco W. Tromp, a Dutch geologist who was strongly interested in the influence of climate and weather on living organisms. This scientific field, called biometeorology, already existed since the nineteen fifties and Solco Tromp was one of the founders of the International Society of Biometeorology (IBS) in 1956.

The Solco W. Tromp Foundation formulated its main objective as: to stimulate scientific research in the area of biometeorology, subsidizing institutes for the study of biometeorological issues in humans and animals and the search for clinical and other applications of the proven biometeorological correlations.

We feel a strong responsibility to take good care of the heritage of Solco W. Tromp, from a scientific and a financial perspective, since Dr Tromps assets after he and his wife passed away, were transferred to the foundation.

The foundations mission is: “To serve society by supporting science on the impact of the atmosphere on living beings, with the goal of a better and healthier life” and we aim to realize this by:

•          Granting travel awards to promising scientists in the field of biometeorology to enable them to visit relevant conferences so they 
            can further develop themselves and others professionally

•          Granting awards for outstanding scientific papers of talented biometeorologists

•          Granting special awards to more senior scientists to show our recognition for their achievements in the field of biometeorology

•          Supporting individual sessions (workshops, seminars) of conferences in order to emphasize the importance of biometeorology

•          Supporting projects promoting biometeorology, especially involving young scientists

Biometeorology is the interdisciplinary science that explores the interactions between atmospheric conditions and living organisms, including humans, animals, and plants. It investigates how weather, climate, and environmental factors impact biological processes, behavior, health, and ecosystems. This growing field is critical for understanding the intricate connections between natural systems and life on Earth, and for addressing the challenges posed by climate change, extreme weather, and aenvironmental shifts. 

Tromp’s major contributions include his work on medical biometeorology, where he explored how weather patterns affect human physiological and psychological well-being. His efforts led to the establishment of the International Society of Biometeorology (ISB) in 1956, which remains a central organization for research and collaboration within the field. The Solco W. Tromp Foundation continues to honor his legacy, supporting research, conferences, and initiatives that further our understanding of the dynamic relationship between atmospheric conditions and biological life. 

Global Biometeorology: Present and Future 

Around the world, biometeorology is gaining attention as a key tool for addressing the intersection of weather, climate, and life. With climate change presenting new challenges, biometeorologists are on the frontlines of assessing and predicting its impact on health, agriculture, and ecosystems. 

International Collaboration:  

The International Society of Biometeorology brings together experts globally to share knowledge, foster research, and promote biometeorology as an essential field in responding to climate change. 

The European meteorological Society and the Tromp Foundation for Biometeorological Research collaborate to promote Biometeorology in Europe and within the EMS community. We announce the EMS Tromp Award for an outstanding achievement in biometeorology and Tromp foundation travel award to young scientists (TFTAYS) together; both types of awards are entirely funded by the Tromp Foundation. The awards are presented each year to the recipients during the EMS Annual Meeting.

Biometeorological Education and Outreach:  Educating the public and policymakers about the importance of biometeorology is crucial. Efforts are underway globally to integrate biometeorological knowledge into climate adaptation strategies and public health systems. 

Activities and events in 2024