Floods show the drastic situation of nature, Austria’s yes to renaturation for a better future is the right path
Vienna (OTS) – 16. June 2024 – The climate referendum welcomes Austria’s upcoming approval of the renaturation law in the Council of the EU. This law aims to restore damaged ecosystems and habitats to good condition by 2050. According to the Federal Environment Agency, more than 80 percent of protected habitats are in poor condition.
“The approval of the EU Council would be a vital decision for the future of our children and grandchildren. Biological diversity is the basis of our existence. Only healthy soils can secure our food supply,” said Christian Kdolsky, spokesman for the climate referendum.
Law ensures healthy ecosystems as a basis for life
Intact ecosystems ensure fertile soils, provide pollination by insects, regulate our drinking water supply, offer protection from natural hazards, are the basis for human health and at the same time provide space for leisure and relaxation.
The planned law aims to harmonize nature conservation and climate protection. In addition to the effects on biodiversity, intact ecosystems help to slow down climate change. They sequester more carbon in the soil that would otherwise escape into the atmosphere. More diversity in forests also protects them and thus binds more carbon. In contrast, monocultures such as spruce trees are more susceptible to pests such as bark beetles due to the climate. Only an intact ecosystem can protect our forests as recreational areas.
Current flood situation shows need for renaturation
Last but not least, the dramatic effects of the floods in Austria in recent days have shown that we urgently need intact ecosystems. The masses of water flooded several towns and streets and caused mudslides and one death. Healthy soils can absorb more water in a shorter time and regulate the water balance. Intact habitats therefore offer protection from extreme weather events, which are becoming more intense and frequent due to climate change.
“The floods have dramatically demonstrated the economic and social losses that occur. We must not put our nature at risk, Austria’s approval of the renaturation law is the right step,” said Kdolsky.
Questions & Contact:
Andreas Köhazy | Lisa-Maria Kolb
Head of communication for the climate referendum
presse@klimavolksbegehren.at
+43 677 63 751 340