Austria’s endangered natural paradise — #FinishWaterWaste for Nature

For many, when we're feeling stressed or anxious, we escape to nature to unwind. But what if nature herself is under stress? Due to climate change, summers are getting hotter and drier. As a result, the groundwater level continues to drop, causing lakes and bogs to dry out. Young trees can no longer reach that most important elixir of life: water.

Signs of this so-called ‘drought stress’ include unnaturally bare patches in the forest, dry tree crowns, bark beetle infestation or even the complete disappearance of what should be a vibrant forest.

In Austria, the eastern part of the country is particularly affected by extreme drought, but other regions are also struggling with the consequences of climate change. Unfortunately, in every province, it’s possible to discover forests where large areas have been razed to the ground by pests, storms or fires. Moors are visibly losing their surface area due to drainage and many a lake resembles a shallow puddle during the summer months.

Nature as we know it is changing. But there is still hope to preserve our forests, the Earth’s green lungs. Many monocultures — plantations that serve primarily to supply us with wood — are being converted into diverse and species-rich mixed forests. Special natural areas are being placed under protection and future excessive development is being halted.

In this Collection, we present five day Tours that take you to endangered natural paradises throughout Austria. From vantage points, summits and panoramic trails you can see the changes for yourself and gain a unique perspective on the issues at hand. All the tours are easily accessible by public transport.

Nature gives us so much, it’s time to give something back to it. Every one of us — each and every individual — can contribute to the preservation of our natural spaces.

Climate change isn’t the only challenge we face. The extreme extraction of groundwater and the draining of wetlands for residential areas and farmland destroy important habitats. Let's work together to conserve water and preserve our natural environment! The challenge is great, but it also offers opportunities. The future could once again become more vibrant, species-rich and colourful.