Sustainability in the Green Heart of Austria

LIVING SUSTAINABLY

Steiermark has become a true pioneer when it comes to sustainability. With its impressive natural setting, there is no question that protecting the unique environment and resources is of crucial importance here. And the promotion of sustainable practices is imperative in various areas too.

Steiermark – a pioneer in sustainability! As a particularly picturesque region in the heart of Austria, it is passionate about renewable energies, green architecture, sustainable agriculture, fair fashion and environmental education. Steiermark aims to be energy self-sufficient by 2030 and has already made considerable progress. Green roofs improve air quality and provide habitats for plants and animals in Graz. "Fair fashion" is gaining importance while regional produce reduces the environmental impact of food production.

So it is only fitting that education and research are constantly developing more choice in this area. Courses in sustainability deal with the topic of the century, the Green Tech Cluster drives a sustainable economy and scientific developments contribute to environmental protection.

SUSTAINABILITY IN STeiermark

The Green Heart of Austria is really something to be proud of. We just need to make sure it stays green – and numerous projects and initiatives in Steiermark contribute to this.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Steiemark has set itself ambitious goals to reduce its dependency on fossil fuels and increase the share of renewable energies. Fortunately this is easy, given the natural conditions of the province. And thanks to the commitment to renewable energies such as hydropower, wind and solar energy, CO₂ emissions have already been significantly reduced in recent years. This should be zero by 2030.

Under this slogan Steiermark isst regional (“Steiermark eats regionally”), Steiermark has launched a unique initiative to promote the consumption of regional and seasonal foods. Farmer’s markets, restaurants and supermarkets are increasingly sourcing local produce to reduce the carbon footprint of the food supply chain and boost local economies.

The sea of red roofs is a well-known and popular view from the Schlossberg in Graz, but green roofs have become a notable trend in the provincial capital. Plant-covered roofs not only help improve air quality and reduce the urban heat island effect, but also provide a valuable habitat for insects and birds.

PROJECTS AND INITIATIVES

Something is being done in the Green Heart. Sustainability awareness is constantly being promoted in all sectors and solutions to urgent problems are being worked on. Everyone is trying to do their bit to the best of their knowledge and belief so that the Green Heart of Austria stays green.

GREEN MEETINGS

Steiermark is a pioneer for sustainability in the event industry too. More and more conference venues and event organisers are hosting "Green Meetings" which take ecological aspects such as energy efficiency, waste avoidance and regional catering into account in order to make events more environmentally friendly.

Green Events

Fair Fashion

The textile industry is known for its environmental impact. Nevertheless, there are a growing number of fashion designers and manufacturers in Steiermark who rely on sustainable materials and fair production practices. "Fair fashion" from Steiermark is enjoying increasing popularity and helping to reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry.

Green Tech Valley

The leading innovation hub for green technologies and sustainability in Europe! As home to various research institutions, start-ups and established companies, the region is known for its groundbreaking solutions in the fields of renewable energies, environmental protection, energy efficiency and sustainable mobility.

to the Valley