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More than 40 percent of the Alpine region is covered by forests. They are not only a defining feature of the landscape, but also a cornerstone of Alpine livelihood, providing building materials, supporting biodiversity, and delivering essential ecosystem services.

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More articles

New publications show: biodiversity still on the wane
New publications show: biodiversity still on the wane
The "Biodiversität in der Schweiz" (Biodiversity in Switzerland) study published by the Biodiversity Forum Switzerland has concluded that genetic diversity and biodiversity are more at risk in Switzerland than in most other European countries.
Who's picking up the bill? New study on external transport costs in Germany and Europe
A study published in early October on the external costs of transport in the EU, Switzerland and Norway by the research institutes IWW (Karlsruhe/D) and Infras (Zurich/CH) shows that the transport system in Germany causes some €150 bn in health and environmental costs each year.
As free as a bird? Light pollution a hazard for migratory birds
More and more migratory birds are falling prey to night-time lighting conditions as they fly south. A closed cover of low-lying fog such as the one that prevailed over large areas of Switzerland in mid-October seriously disrupts the migratory birds' ability to orientate themselves; combined with towns and villages that are brightly lit at night it can represent a death trap for the birds.
International Mountain Day focuses on conflict resolution
December 11 is to be celebrated worldwide as International Mountain Day. This year the main focus of interest is the overriding significance of peace for sustainable development.

Events

  • 2026-11-17T00:00:00+01:00
  • 2026-11-20T23:59:59+01:00
  • Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna (Austria)
Nov 17, 2026 - Nov 20, 2026
Symposium 2: Vernacular Buildings in the Anthropocene Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna (Austria)

Projects

Responsible management of mountain water resources
Responsible management of mountain water resources
Mountain regions constitute a unique yet fragile natural environment that provides habitat for numerous rare and endemic species. Their biodiversity is rich, yet highly vulnerable. These areas host a variety of aquatic ecosystems—rivers, streams, lakes, wetlands and peat bogs — which have very limited self-purification capacity and are extremely sensitive to change. Their condition is directly affected by climate change and human activities.
Alpine Changemaker Network
Alpine Changemaker Network
How can we advance eco-social transformation in the Alpine region? The Alpine Changemaker Network project combines Alpine traditions, as reflected in contemporary art, culture and design, with current approaches to overcoming global crises.
Heating of buildings and air quality 2.0
Heating of buildings and air quality 2.0
The project represents a continuation of efforts to reduce air pollution resulting from improper combustion in individual furnaces. Particular attention is paid to the use of outdated wood biomass combustion devices, which contribute significantly to emissions of particles that are harmful to health.