Pioneer in the study of eutrophication
Schindler's research on nutrient enrichment (eutrophication) in lakes helped shape our understanding of the impacts of human activities such as agriculture and urbanization on freshwater ecosystems.
Advocate for science-based environmental policy - Schindler was a passionate advocate for the use of science in environmental policy-making, and he was not afraid to speak out against government and industry when their policies or practices threatened the health of freshwater ecosystems.