Students from Europe research alpine ecosystems in Vorarlberg

Students from Europe research alpine ecosystems in Vorarlberg

As part of the Erasmus+ project "Researching and Saving Ecosystems in Europe", students from four different countries took part in Feldkirch, Vorarlberg from September 30 to October 4, 2023. At this meeting, the focus was on researching alpine ecology and better understanding. The fascination of the region was particularly in its diverse nature, which was brought closer to the students through various activities.

A highlight of the program was a workshop in the Schruns cheese house, in which the young participants learned how to make their own cheese. "If you have reached the temperature of 35 degrees, you can add the lab," the cheese house employee trained the motivated students. In addition to these practical exercises, they researched the landscape in the Rheindelta, which is characterized by flood areas. There they learned a lot about local biodiversity, the growth of small ponds and the different bird species that breed in this area or stop on their train.

adventurous discoveries and nature experiences

Another exciting part of the program was visiting the Inatura Museum in Dornbirn. Here the pupils dealt with the human influence on the nature of the Alpine region and considered which protective measures are necessary to preserve these valuable ecosystems. An interesting task for the young people was to calculate how many trees would be necessary to compensate for their own carbon dioxide emissions. Such experiences contributed to developing a better awareness of ecological relationships.

But the exchange was not limited to scientific activities. Living with host families and getting to know other cultures played an important role. When exploring Feldkirch and attending lessons in the local school, the students were able to make international friendships. A visit to Bregenz, climbing in the climbing forest and a rapid descent with the Alpine Coaster were among the leisure activities. These experiences rounded off the program and provided a lot of fun and joy.

The homemade cheese pleasure that the students appreciated on their final evening will certainly be particularly remembered. The entire delegation from the Kopernikus School will think back with a smile and positive memories of the extensive project in Feldkirch. The combination of practical experience, scientific discovery and intercultural exchange has made this Erasmus+ contribution an unforgettable experience.

Further information and reports on the exciting journey and the exchange are on mkk-echo.de to be found.