Water is life. For centuries, wetlands have been the world’s natural sponges—absorbing water, protecting ecosystems, and supporting an extraordinary array of plant and animal life. However, these critical habitats are under threat from urban expansion, industrial activities, and climate change. Austria, a country known for its commitment to environmental protection, is putting a lot of efforts in safeguarding these vital ecosystems, particularly through the Ramsar Convention.
According to the COP14 Ramsar National Report, the country has not only adopted the convention’s guidelines but is also actively involving both public and private sectors to ensure the wise use of wetlands.
Public-Private Partnerships: An Effective Strategy for Wetland Protection
One of Austria’s most notable achievements in wetland conservation is the increasing engagement of the private sector in the responsible management of these ecosystems. The private sector is encouraged to apply the Ramsar’s wise use principles, which focus on maintaining the ecological character of wetlands while allowing sustainable use that benefits local communities. This partnership between the government, businesses, and environmental groups is proving to be a model for effective conservation.
For example, in Burgenland, the manager of the Ramsar site ‘Güssing Fish Ponds’ applies sustainable practices to balance ecological conservation with local economic interests. To offset some of the economic challenges posed by these conservation efforts, a funding agreement has been reached with the federal province of Burgenland, illustrating a clear instance of how public-private cooperation can create mutually beneficial solutions for both conservation and local economies.
In Carinthia, the collaboration between Arge NATURSCHUTZ and AHP – VERBUND Austrian Hydro Power AG has led to the acquisition and restoration of land in a mire, improving both the biodiversity of the site and the long-term sustainability of local hydropower operations. These partnerships, funded in part by EU initiatives, are building a future where private companies can continue their operations while contributing positively to environmental protection.
Sustainable Agricultural Practices: Bridging Ecology and Economy
Agriculture is another sector where Austria is leveraging its public-private partnerships to implement the Ramsar guidelines. The ÖPUL (Agri-Environmental Programme), a national nature protection initiative, plays a crucial role in integrating conservation efforts into farming practices. In regions like Lower Austria and Styria, agricultural lands are managed with a focus on preserving floodplains and habitats for endangered species. Nearly 9% of the participating areas in the ÖPUL programme are located in floodplains, where agricultural practices are harmonized with habitat conservation needs.
These efforts reflect a broader understanding that wetland conservation doesn’t have to be in opposition to economic activities like farming and tourism. By promoting sustainable agricultural practices and offering incentives for conservation, Austria is showing that environmental protection can go hand in hand with economic development.
Conserving Biodiversity: The Role of Education and Public Awareness
In addition to policy integration and industry collaboration, Austria has placed a strong emphasis on education and public participation as key drivers of wetland conservation. Ramsar sites in Austria are not just ecological sanctuaries—they are educational hubs. With 19 visitor centers across the country, such as the Neusiedler See-Seewinkel Visitor Centre and the Danube-Auen National Park, Austria is actively engaging the public in learning about wetlands and the importance of their protection.
This post is prepared by Vlado Vancura, European Wilderness Society´s expert