Noise reduction in Graz: railway noise finally defeated!

Noise reduction in Graz: railway noise finally defeated!

The residents of the Gösting district of Graz had to struggle with unbearable noise pollution from a shunting train station for a long time. The ÖBB took action based on these complaints and, in collaboration with the city of Graz, the Ministry of Climate Protection and the State of Styria, took various measures to reduce noise, as Franz Hammerschmid from ÖBB Infrastructure AG explained. The work carried out includes the construction of new noise barriers and the heightening of existing ones as well as the installation of a lubricant system to reduce noise emissions at the valley brake. This meant that an ongoing civil lawsuit aimed at stopping the annoying “squeaking” noises was ended amicably. According to a statement from the ÖBB, the lawsuit was declared fulfilled because the noise reduction measures were demonstrably successful and relocating the shunting station is not being considered, so that the residents can finally breathe a sigh of relief ORF Styria reported.

Climate neutral by 2040 – Graz is on the right track

As part of the city of Graz's ambitious climate protection plan, which was approved by the local council in March 2022, the city is now drawing positive interim conclusions. The goal of making “Haus Graz” climate-neutral by 2030 and the entire city by 2040 is already showing progress. An incredible 35 percent of the more than 400 measures in the action plan are now either projects that have been decided upon, are being implemented or have already been completed. This includes, among other things, 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 expected to save a further 7,000 tons annually in the future My district reported.

The city of Graz is also actively engaging citizens, as around 50 companies and 100 private individuals are already taking part in this climate protection plan. The Graz climate protection officer, Thomas Drage, emphasizes that every individual contribution counts, be it through active mobility or a conscious diet. In addition, innovative approaches in the urban development concept and mobility plan should further advance the transformation. Despite the challenges that still exist, Vice Mayor Judith Schwentner is optimistic that Graz is well on the way to climate neutrality.