Lower reduction in Graz: Finally defeated rail noise!

Lower reduction in Graz: Finally defeated rail noise!

Gösting, Österreich - The residents of the Gösting district of Graz had long had to deal with unbearable noise pollution from a shifting station. The ÖBB became active on the basis of these symptoms and, in cooperation with the city of Graz, the Ministry of Climate Protection and Styria, took various measures to reduce noise, as Franz Hammerschmid from ÖBB Infrastructure AG said. The work carried out includes the construction of new and the increase in existing noise barriers and the installation of a lubricant system to reduce noise emissions on the valley brake. As a result, an already ongoing civil process that aimed at the failure to refrain from the disruptive “Quietsch” noises could be ended by mutual agreement. According to a notification of the ÖBB, the claim was declared fulfilled, since the noise reduction measures were proven to be successful and a relocation of the postponement station is not taken into account, so that the residents can finally breathe a sigh of relief, such as orf Styria reported.

climate -neutral until 2040 - Graz on the right path

As part of the ambitious climate protection plan of the city of Graz, which was decided in the municipal council in March 2022, the city is now drawing a positive interim balance. The goal of making the "Haus Graz" until 2030 and the entire city by 2040 already shows progress. Incredible 35 percent of the over 400 measures of the action plan are now either decided, implemented or already completed projects. These include the expansion of photovoltaic systems and the conversion of the bus fleet to alternative drives. These measures have already led to a saving of 1,200 tons of CO2, and the PV master plan is to save another 7,000 tons annually, such as my district reported.

The city of Graz is also actively involved in the citizens, since around 50 companies and 100 private individuals already take part in this climate protection plan. The Graz climate protection officer, Thomas Drage, emphasizes that each individual contribution, be it through active mobility or a conscious diet, counts. In addition, innovative approaches in the urban development concept and mobility plan should further advance the transformation. Despite the existing challenges, Vice Mayor Judith Schwentner is optimistic that Graz is on the right track to climate neutrality.