Biotope association of Southeast Styria: secure nature diversity for our future

Biotope association of Southeast Styria: secure nature diversity for our future

The "Nature -related Styria" initiative has taken a significant step in the implementation of its objective. Environmental state councilor Ursula Lackner gave the starting signal for the development of a nationwide biotope network that focuses on networking and maintaining habitats in Styria. This measure is not only an advantage for nature, but also has the goal of securing biodiversity in the long term.

In four selected model regions, which also includes Southeast Styria, concrete projects are now being carried out. Strategies are tested here to better combine the different natural habitats such as forests, meadows and water. This is intended to help support the intact ecosystems and to promote biodiversity.

structure of a strong network

On the initiative of Ursula Lackner, a close -meshed network of various partners was established last year. These include organizations such as the Chamber of Agriculture, the Styrian State Hunters and several NGOs. Together they want to develop measures to promote the biotope network. Important analyzes are currently underway to evaluate the current state of habitats and to develop programs based on this.

In 2024, three funding calls have already been launched, which lead to the financing of a total of 15 projects with a sum of around 1.5 million euros. All of these projects aim to use local biotope network managers who implement the projects in the model regions with the population.

Michael Fend, Managing Director of Southeast Styria Regional Management, emphasizes that the Styrian volcanelia has many protected areas that serve as an excellent basis for the projects. His goal is to make significant progress in the field of nature and environmental promotion through these initiatives.

The goal of biodiversity

The experiences gained from these model regions are not only used locally, but also as the basis for a broader application in other areas of Styria. The aim is to create a nationwide biotope network that supports and further develops all habitats of domestic flora and fauna. Ultimately, intact ecosystems are crucial for our environment because they ensure clean air, pure water and fertile soils.

The MP Cornelia Schweiner is pleased that the region was selected as one of the first model regions and thanks the environmental councilor Ursula Lackner for the initiative. Her colleague Franz Fartek adds that the new biotope network management offers a valuable opportunity to ecologically link river areas in the region and thereby create habitats that benefit both people and nature.

For more information about the initiative, the official website www.naturbunden-steiermark.org