WWF warns: Austria's nature is facing massive regression!

WWF warns: Austria's nature is facing massive regression!

In the midst of the ongoing coalition negotiations between the FPÖ and the ÖVP, the WWF is sounding the alarm: The nature conservation organization warns of “massive regression” in environmental policy. Program director Hanna Simons emphasizes that a serious environmental protection policy is essential to make Austria future-proof. A decline in environmental policy could not only damage the natural heritage, but also entail direct follow-up costs for all people in Austria ots.at reported.

The WWF is calling on the new government to develop a coherent climate and nature conservation program that meets the challenges of climate change and takes into account the path to climate neutrality by 2040. What is also necessary is a quicker exit from oil and gas as well as a comprehensive renovation offensive for buildings. “This not only benefits the environment, but also secures sustainable jobs and makes Austria more independent of fossil fuels,” explains Simons. Another key point is protecting biodiversity and complying with the EU Restoration Act for a vibrant and healthy nature so that everyone can benefit, as stated in the report by wwf.at emerges.

Protecting valuable land

The loss of valuable soil is particularly worrying in Austria, where over 80 square meters are sealed every minute. This endangers not only the food supply, but also the country's security in the face of increasing extreme weather events, which are exacerbated by the climate crisis. The WWF is calling for a nationwide soil protection contract to get this problem under control. “A strong soil protection chapter in the coming government plans is essential to counteract land consumption,” said Simons.